Fire Department
Fire Prevention
Fire prevention is a vital part of protecting our community, families, and property from the dangers of fire. Through education, inspections, safety programs, and community awareness, fire prevention helps reduce the risk of fires before they start. Simple actions such as maintaining smoke alarms, practicing escape plans, using electrical equipment safely, and handling flammable materials responsibly can save lives. Our Fire Department is committed to promoting fire safety through prevention efforts, public outreach, and emergency preparedness to help keep our citizens safe every day.
Workplace fire prevention involves taking safety measures to reduce the risk of fires and protect employees, equipment, and property. Common fire hazards include faulty electrical wiring, improper storage of flammable materials, and poor housekeeping. Employers can prevent fires by regularly inspecting equipment, keeping work areas clean, installing fire safety equipment such as alarms and extinguishers, and training employees on emergency procedures. Effective fire prevention helps create a safer and more secure working environment.
Home fire prevention focuses on reducing fire risks to keep families and property safe. Common causes of house fires include unattended cooking, faulty electrical wiring, overloaded outlets, heating equipment, and candles. To prevent fires, it is important to keep flammable items away from heat sources, avoid overloading electrical sockets, regularly check smoke alarms, and never leave cooking unattended. Families should also have working fire extinguishers, clear escape routes, and a practiced fire evacuation plan. Good fire safety habits at home can greatly reduce the risk of fire-related injuries and damage.
Kitchen fire prevention is especially important because cooking is one of the leading causes of house fires. Most kitchen fires start from unattended cooking, grease buildup, or flammable items placed too close to heat sources. To prevent fires, never leave food cooking on the stove unattended, keep towels, paper, and packaging away from burners, and regularly clean cooking surfaces to remove grease. It’s also important to use caution when cooking with oil, keep a fire extinguisher nearby, and know how to safely turn off heat sources in an emergency. Careful attention and good habits in the kitchen can greatly reduce fire risks.
Fire extinguishers are essential safety devices used to put out small fires before they spread. They work by releasing substances that remove heat, oxygen, or fuel from the fire. Different types are designed for different fires, such as electrical, grease, or paper fires. To use one safely, remember the PASS method: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side. Fire extinguishers should be placed in easily accessible locations and checked regularly to ensure they are fully charged and in good working condition.
If a fire or emergency occurs, calling 911 is the safest and fastest way to get help from firefighters, police, or medical services. If you are unable to speak because of danger, injury, or silence is required, you may be able to text 911 in some areas where the service is available. However, calling is always preferred when possible because it allows dispatchers to get information more quickly. Whether calling or texting, it is important to stay calm, give your exact location, and clearly explain the emergency so help can be sent as soon as possible.
The Smokey Bear Wildfire Prevention campaign, created in 1944, is the longest-running public service campaign in U.S. history. It teaches people how to help prevent wildfires, and Smokey Bear is one of the most recognized safety symbols in the world. The campaign is managed by the USDA Forest Service, the National Association of State Foresters, and the Ad Council. Smokey’s message has changed over time—from “Smokey Says – Care Will Prevent 9 out of 10 Forest Fires” to “Remember… Only YOU Can Prevent Forest Fires,” and now “Only You Can Prevent Wildfires” to reflect all types of outdoor fires. Smokey Bear was created during World War II when wildfire risks increased and many firefighters were serving in the military. The idea was to encourage the public to be more careful to prevent fires. After early success using animal characters like Disney’s “Bambi,” Smokey was officially introduced on August 9, 1944, and quickly became the symbol of wildfire prevention.
Pet fire safety is important because pets are often at risk during home fires. To keep them safe, make sure pets are included in your home fire escape plan and practice how you will get them out quickly. Keep leashes, carriers, or crates in easy-to-reach places so you can move pets safely in an emergency. Never leave pets near open flames, candles, or hot stoves, and use flameless candles when possible. It is also a good idea to place pet alert stickers on windows or doors to let firefighters know animals are inside your home. Taking these steps can help protect pets from fire dangers.
Candle safety is important because candles can easily start house fires if left unattended or placed too close to flammable objects. Always keep candles away from curtains, paper, bedding, and other items that can catch fire, and place them on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Never leave a burning candle unattended, and always blow it out before leaving a room or going to sleep. Keep candles out of reach of children and pets, and consider using flameless LED candles as a safer alternative. Practicing good candle safety helps reduce the risk of accidental fires in the home.
