STATION 51’S “STAY W.A.R.M.” CAMPAIGN EMPHASIZES SAFE CHOICES IN COLD WEATHER

As the temperature outside begins to drop, Bristol Fire Company (Station 51) encourages citizens to “Stay W.A.R.M.” and be aware that with the increased use of kitchens and heat sources, the instances of house fires also increases.  Through their seasonal campaign, “Stay W.A.R.M.,” Station 51 provides fire safety reminders to the Bristol community.

“We want to make sure the Bristol community stays safe this winter,” said Station 51 Fire Chief Herb Slack. “By remembering this year’s ‘Stay W.A.R.M.’ campaign, your family can be knowledgeable about the fire hazards that come with the change of seasons.”

Families can remain out of harm’s way this season by adhering to the following safety measures:

WATCH Out for Hazards Near Heat Sources

·        Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from a fireplace, space heater, furnace or other heat source.

·        Make sure your fireplace has a sturdy screen to keep sparks from flying into the room.  Ashes must be cool before putting them into a metal container which should then be placed a safe distance from your home.

·        Remember to turn off portable heaters before leaving the room or going to sleep.

·        To extinguish a candle, use a snuffer to rob the flame of its oxygen.  Pouring water on a burning candle may make the flame to grow; blowing out the flame could cause you to splatter hot wax onto yourself or nearby objects. 

ADULT Supervision

·        Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around heat sources.

·        Teach children that hot things can burn.

·        An adult should always be near a live, burning flame.

·        Keep lighters, matches and lit candles out of the reach of children.

·        Portable heaters and fireplaces should only be used by adults.

REMEMBER To Get Your Heat Sources Inspected

·        Furnaces and chimneys should be inspected and cleaned by a licensed professional annually. 

·        A fireplace screen should be constructed of metal or heat-tempered glass, in good condition, and secure in its position in front of the fireplace.

·        Space heaters should be equipped with automatic shutoff devices.  They should be plugged directly into an outlet - never into an extension cord.

·        Test your smoke alarms monthly to make sure they are working properly.

MONITOR Hot Foods

·        Place hot liquids and foods in the center of the table, away from the edges.

·        Never hold a child while cooking or holding hot liquids or foods.

·        Stay in the kitchen while preparing food on the cook top.  If you must leave the room, turn off the burners.

·        Keep anything that can catch fire away from hot appliances.

·        Be alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol do not use the stove.

·        If you encounter a kitchen fire, get out of the house and close the doors behind you to help contain the blaze, then call 9-1-1 immediately.

“When families are conscientious and take measures to stay safe, they can enjoy the comfort of their warm and cozy home without worrying,” explained Chief Slack.

Another risk residents should be aware of is the colorless, odorless gas carbon monoxide.  Each year, 5,000 Americans suffer from carbon monoxide poisoning and about 300 people die from its effects.  Households not equipped with a carbon monoxide detector can contact Station 51 and may be eligible to get one installed free of charge.

For more information regarding safety tips or the installation of a carbon monoxide detector or smoke alarm contact Station 51 at 215-785-1975.  You can also visit www.bristol51.com or www.facebook.com, keyword “Bristol Fire Company.” The Bristol Fire Company is located at 198 Wood Street in Bristol.