Handbooks and Publications - Fire Prevention | Page 9

Fire Prevention Tips
not used should be discarded. Other items should be properly stored. Fire is less
likely to start in a neatly organized storage area. An organized storage area,
basement or garage also makes it easier for firefighters to reach the source of a fire
without having to 'fight" clutter blo cking their path. Below is a list of suggestions for
fire safety in your garage, basement or storage area:
1. Doors connecting a basement and garage or other storage area should NEVER
be locked. Storing on shelves with markers is a safe way to keep your store
room tidy, it helps you save time when in need of an item, it also helps to
prevent pilferage.
2. Any oily rags you do not really need should be thrown away. If you must save
some, be sure to store them in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. This
metal container should then be stored in a metal cabinet in the garage or
basement. In addition to oil rags, paint, etc., it is strongly recommended that
everyday cleaning products such as furniture polishes and other flammable
liquids also be stored in this metal cabinet.
3. Install water heaters away from walls and ceilings. DO NOT store
combustibles on or near this unit. Be sure to keep ducts and filters dust-free
by cleaning several times a year with the unit shut OFF.
4. Store newspapers in a cool, dry place at least three feet away from any
sources generating heat. It is possible for newspapers to generate heat and
ignite themselves, so avoid storing them in a warm, damp area.
5. Keep the area surrounding a clothes dryer free of combustibles. Be sure to
clean lint screen before and after use. Never leave synthetic fabrics, plastics,
rubber or foam in the dryer longer than the manufacturer's recommended
time. Dryers must be vented to outside and plugged into its own outlet.
6. The door at the head of the basement stairs should be tightly fitted and kept
closed at night. If a fire were to break out in the basement during the night,
this would limit the amount of heat and smoke rising to the upstairs rooms.

HOLIDAY DECORATIONS
It is a sad reality that the times of the year which bring us the most joy are
accompanied by tragedy. Statistics indicate a marked increase in the number of
fires which occur during the holidays. Too often we become to caught up in the
excitement of the holidays that we neglect to
practice the most basic fire safety. By simply following the preventive, measure
outlined below, you and your family can enjoy all the holidays' festivities without
having them marred by suffering or disaster:
Before purchasing a natural tree, check it for freshness. Fresh needles will
bend between the fingers without breaking. Tap the tree lightly on the
ground. If many needles falloff, the tree is too dry.
2. Secure a particularly large tree to the ceiling or walls with durable wire. Tie off
the tree from at least two points.
1.

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