Fire Prevention and Safety: Lower Providence Fire Department

At the Lower Providence Fire Department, our mission extends beyond emergency response. We are committed to educating our community about fire prevention and safety. Taking proactive steps to prevent fires is crucial to ensuring the safety of your home, family, and neighbors. Below, we provide important fire safety tips for all ages, holidays, and different seasons of the year. Let’s work together to keep our community safe!

Fire Safety for All Ages

Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility. Understanding and practicing fire prevention at all stages of life ensures our community remains protected.

Children’s Fire Safety

Children are naturally curious, which makes it critical to teach them about fire safety early.

• Keep matches and lighters out of reach: Store these items in high, locked cabinets.
• Teach “Stop, Drop, and Roll” in case their clothes catch fire.
• Create an escape plan with your children. Practice home fire drills at least twice a year.
• Don’t leave children unattended in rooms with candles or near cooking appliances.
• Educate them about smoke alarms: Explain what the alarm sounds like and what to do if they hear it.
• Firefighter education: Make sure children know firefighters are there to help. Familiarize them with what a firefighter looks like in full gear so they won’t be scared during an emergency.

Fire Safety for Older Adults

Older adults may face mobility challenges, so it’s important to ensure their homes are equipped to minimize fire risk.

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, especially near sleeping areas. Use alarms with flashing lights for those with hearing impairments.
• Check cords and outlets: Avoid overloading outlets, and ensure that all appliances are turned off after use.
• Keep exits clear: Ensure that pathways are free from clutter to allow for a quick evacuation.
• Test smoke alarms regularly and replace the batteries annually.

Fire Safety for Holidays

Holidays are times of celebration, but they also present fire risks due to increased cooking, decorations, and activities. Follow these guidelines to ensure your festivities remain safe:

Thanksgiving and Christmas Fire Safety

• Stay in the kitchen while cooking: Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires. Never leave food cooking on the stove unattended, especially during busy holiday preparations.
• Turkey fryers should only be used outdoors and away from buildings.
• Keep decorations away from heat sources: Ensure that holiday lights, candles, and Christmas trees are far from heaters, fireplaces, and other heat sources.
• Check holiday lights for damage: Replace any frayed wires or broken bulbs. Don’t overload electrical outlets with too many decorations.
• Opt for flame-retardant decorations whenever possible.

Halloween Fire Safety

• Choose flame-resistant costumes: Look for costumes made of materials that resist catching fire.
• Use battery-operated candles instead of open flames in decorations, such as inside pumpkins.
• Clear pathways for trick-or-treaters to prevent accidents near decorations with open flames or electrical cords.

Fire Safety for Different Seasons

Each season presents unique fire hazards, and being prepared for them can prevent disaster.

Winter Fire Safety

During the colder months, heating equipment becomes a leading cause of fires in the home.

• Keep flammable items at least three feet away from space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves.
• Use space heaters with automatic shut-off and never leave them unattended.
• Clean chimneys annually if you have a fireplace to prevent creosote buildup.
• Check carbon monoxide detectors: Ensure they are functioning properly during the heating season.
• Avoid using ovens to heat your home, as this can create a serious fire hazard.

Spring and Summer Fire Safety

Warmer weather often brings more outdoor activities, which can also introduce fire risks.

• Grill safely: Keep grills at least 10 feet away from your home and never leave them unattended while cooking.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby when grilling or using outdoor fire pits.
• Clear debris like leaves and twigs from around your home, especially near heat-producing equipment.
• Be cautious with fireworks: Leave fireworks displays to professionals. If using sparklers, supervise children closely and ensure they remain at a safe distance.

Autumn Fire Safety

As fall arrives and temperatures drop, there are additional precautions to take.

• Inspect your heating systems: Ensure that heating units are clean and properly functioning before use.
• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as you prepare your home for colder weather.
• Be mindful of candles: Use candleholders that won’t tip over and extinguish candles before leaving a room.

Cooking Fire Prevention

Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires, and they can happen in an instant. Whether you are preparing a simple meal or a holiday feast, here are key safety tips:

• Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you must leave the room, even for a short period, turn off the stove.
• Turn pot handles inward to avoid accidental spills.
• Keep flammable items like towels, potholders, and food packaging away from the stovetop.
• Never cook while drowsy or under the influence of alcohol.
• If a fire starts on the stovetop, smother it by sliding a lid over the pan and turning off the heat. Never use water on a grease fire.
• Keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen and know how to use it.

Get Involved in Fire Safety

At the Lower Providence Fire Department, we offer a range of educational programs, including fire safety presentations for schools, businesses, and community organizations. Whether you're interested in fire safety for your family or workplace, we are here to help.

If you have any questions about fire prevention, or if you would like to schedule a fire safety presentation, please contact us. Together, we can build a safer community!

By following these guidelines and staying aware of fire hazards, you can help reduce the risk of fire in your home and community. Lower Providence Fire Department is always here to support you in staying fire-safe year-round.