In-Home Fire Safety Tips

As the fire season is already underway, the Clairemont Town Council’s Public Safety Awareness Committee would like to remind you of the following fire prevention and safety preparedness steps. Although there are extensive resources relating to fire prevention, our goal is to highlight several focus points for our neighborhoods.

In Home Fire Safety Tips

General:

• Furnace, Kerosene Heaters, Wood Stoves, and Fireplaces should be inspected for damage, safety control triggers, emergency shutoffs, and thermostats are operational.
  
• It is not recommended to use any type of flammable liquid or flame accelerator to start an indoor fire.
  
• Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors are operational.
  
• Develop an Emergency plan and Fire Escape Plan and practice it. Be sure to establish two central meeting places one should be near the home and two should be a few blocks away at a park, building or business.
  
• Establish a central communication point such as an out of the area relative. This assists in the event family members are separated.
  
• Maintain a 30ft minimum distance defensible space around your home by reducing vegetation and tree build up.
• Get an ABC rated fire extinguisher.

Remember the word PASS when using a fire extinguisher:

P – Pull the pin and hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you.

A – Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.

S – Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

S – Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

• Do not block exits.

Holiday Fire Safety:


Halloween

• Don’t use candles for decorations.  They’re dangerous, especially when left unattended.
  
• Tell kids to stay away from candles and jack-o'-lanterns that may be on steps and porches.  Their costumes could catch fire if they get too close.
  
• Remove any excess garbage and vegetation to reduce arson temptations.
  

Christmas

• Check power cords for fraying and damage.
  
• Inspect Home and Tree lights for damage.
  
• Ensure Christmas Trees are well-watered, moist, and properly maintained.
  
• Position your tree and gifts a safe distance from heating sources such as a fire place or heater.
  
• Inspect power outlets prior to use.
  
• Candles should always be monitored
  

Remember:


Fire Prevention Week is observed the second week of October. Contact your local Fire Department for any questions or recommendation.


Resources:

http://www.usfa.fema.gov/citizens/home_fire_prev/


http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/home-fire 

Steph Groce
Director-At-Large