Fire Prevention Week: Tips and Tools to Stay Safe

Fire Prevention Week 2009, from October 4-10, focused on burn awareness and prevention with its theme: "Stay Fire Smart! Don't Get Burned."

During Fire Prevention Week, fire departments throughout San Luis Obispo County run the Central Coast Relay - teaching fire prevention to more than 6,500 children in 16 schools and raising funds for AARBF. The Atascadero Firefighters In Safety Education also gives presentations in local schools.

Use the following National Fire Protection Association's checklist to make sure you are being fire smart:

__ Electrical cords are in good condition (not damaged).
__ The clothes dryer has a clean vent and filter (no lint build-up).
__ Appliances and lights are plugged into separate electrical outlets.
__ All smoke alarms work when tested by a grown-up.
__ A grown-up always stays in the kitchen whenever food is cooking on the stovetop.
__ All extension cords are used safely (not under carpets or across walking areas).
__ Portable space heaters are 3 feet away from anything that can burn.
__ All escape routes are clear of clutter and easily accessible.
__ Curtains and other things that can burn are away from the stovetop.
__ The furnace has been inspected in the past year.
__ Portable space heaters are off whenever a grown-up leaves the room and goes to sleep.
__ The chimney has been inspected and cleaned in the past year.

Easy-to-use resources such as a grid to develop a home fire escape plan and a great list of safety tips also can be found at the National Fire Protection Association's web site.

Also in this issue:

Beach Adventure Brings Sun and Surf
Hook & Ladder: A Roaring Success!
The HOTLIST