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Fire Safety Tips

From the West Chester Fire Department

Fire Prevention Week
October 9 - 15, 2005
"Use Candles with Care; when you go out, blow out"

Candles may look nice, but they're a growing threat in our communities.  Candle fires account for 2.4% of all fires, result in 6% of total injuries from fires and 3% of all fatalities from fires.  These figures will rise with the significant increase of candle usage.  What's more, young school-aged children are the most likely to be the victims of fires started by candles.  Knowing the facts about candles is a key to fire safety.  The misuse of candles account for 85% of all candle fire incidents.  Unattended candles account for a large portion of candle related fires.  If you are not in the room with a lit candle, extinguish it.
When using candles, remember to:
       Never leave a burning candle unattended,
       Never have a burning candle near items that may catch fire,
       Keep burning candles out of reach of children and pets.

Remember to check smoke detectors regularly and install new batteries every 6 months!

Prevention is the key to Fire Safety

Most fatal fires occur at night when we are most vulnerable.  Seconds not minutes can make the difference between getting out safely or dying.

Studies have proven that smoke alarms greatly increase your chance of survival.  Most cities and towns require that homeowners and landlords must install and maintain smoke alarms on every level of the home.

Smoke alarms should be tested every month, either by using the test button or introducing real smoke, from a real candle or cigarette.  They also should be vacuumed every six months.

Battery operated smoke alarms should have their battery replaced at least once a year.  An easy reminder is "when you change your clock for daylight saving time, change your smoke alarm battery".

Fire Safety for Renters
 

West Chester Fire Department encourages those who live in rental property to purchase renter's insurance.

If you rent a house, apartment or condominium, you are responsible for providing renter's insurance for your personal belongings. This will ensure that your belongings can be replaced in the case of a fire or other disaster. The owner of the property is responsible for insurance for the structure. Renter's insurance can be purchased through most insurance companies. The average cost for renter's insurance is less than the cost of a movie rental a week.

The Fire Department urges you to check on your insurance coverage to ensure that your family is properly protected. Rental policies usually cover your belongings up to a certain dollar amount. Some policies provide room and board while property is being repaired.

Space Heaters:

During the cold weather months we sometimes turn to portable space heaters to help heat rooms that may not get sufficient heat from your central heating system. You can help prevent house fires by taking a few simple precautions with these space heaters

 

• We recommend the following:
   
• Space heaters need space. They are not to be used as a drying rack. Do no put anything on top of a heater.
• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from your space heater.
• Teach children to NEVER play near the heater and always to keep toys and clothes away.
• Plug electric space heaters directly into a wall socket, do not use extension cords. Always unplug your heater when not in use.
• When purchasing a new space heater, make sure that it meets the ULC/CSA approval.
• Ensure the heater has an automatic shut off switch if it is tipped over.
• Always take your kerosene heaters outside to cool down and to refill the heater, never refill heater indoors.
• Be sure to always follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and placement.

"Watch What You Heat: Prevent Home Fires"

Smoke Alarms

Fire Extinguishers

Smoke Alarms and Fire Extinguisher also make great house warming gifts.

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