City manager shares autumn, holiday fire prevention tips
–By City Manager, Rachelle Rickard
The City of Atascadero is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all those living in and visiting our community. and Atascadero’s first responders are dedicated to reducing the occurrence of home fires and home fire injuries through prevention and protection education.
The City recognizes Fire Prevention Week each October, which commemorates the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. That tragic event killed more than 250 persons, left 100,000 homeless and destroyed more than 17,400 buildings, and serves as the motivating force to bring the citizens of Atascadero together to build a safer community.
Everyone is well aware that our local wild land fire fuel sources have by this time of year become extremely flammable. The fire department recommends that everyone remember to clean their roofs and gutters; maintain 100’ clearance of weeds and grasses from around structures as well as 10’ clearance on driveways; keep brush back from structures at a distance of at least 30’ or more; and remember that an 8’ tall bush can produce 50’ plus flame lengths. Also remember to abate weeds and vegetation early in the day, as cutting fuel in the afternoon poses a greater fire danger.
At this busy time of year, many of us will be cooking for friends and family and decorating our homes for the upcoming fall and winter season holidays. Some very simple safety reminders are to never leave your stove or oven unattended while cooking, and if you are faced with a grease fire, remember – cover it with a lid and turn off the heat source. Be sure to place candles in non- tip candle holders and also ensure they are placed well away from any flammable materials. Never leave lit candles unattended and always make sure they are out of the reach of children.
Most Christmas tree fires can be prevented. Before buying your tree, test it for freshness by tapping the base of the tree on the ground. If needles fall or can be pulled off easily, the tree is too dry. Find a cool spot for your fresh tree, away from heater vents and the fireplace. Be sure to keep your tree as fresh as possible by watering it often.
Many fatal fires take place at night, while you and your family are asleep – when seconds can make the difference between life and death. It is true that smoke alarms save lives; if you have one or more working smoke alarms in your home, you double your chances of surviving a fire. Smoke alarms are inexpensive and easy to install. Remember to change the batteries in your smoke alarm every year in the fall when you turn back your clock.
My wish for our community is that everyone will safely enjoy all of the events and gatherings the upcoming autumn and holiday season will bring.
As always, if you have any questions regarding this or any other topic concerning the City, please feel free to contact me at [email protected].
