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Firefighters Urge All Vermonters to “Prevent Home Fires” during Fire Prevention Week and year-round

Tuesday October 7, 2008

Firefighters Urge All Vermonters to “Prevent Home Fires” during Fire Prevention Week and year-round.

    A pot holder too close to a lit burner, or a space heater left on overnight, or an improperly installed wood stove, could be all it takes to start a home fire. In fact, heating and cooking are among the leading causes of home fires in Vermont.

    That’s why Fire Departments across the state are teaming up with the Division of Fire Safety, Vermont Emergency Management and the nonprofit National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to remind local residents to “Prevent Home Fires” during Fire Prevention Week. This year’s campaign focuses on preventing the leading causes of home fires – heating, cooking and electrical equipment. Additionally, fire department safety educators will be teaching local residents how to plan and practice escape from a home in case a fire occurs.

    Each year in Vermont, fire kills an average of 11 people, 1000 people are treated at emergency departments for fire and burn injuries, and an estimated $82 million in property is lost to fire.

    At a recent Alternative Heating Safety Seminar held at the Barre Auditorium, Governor James H. Douglas signed a proclamation that identified October 5-11, 2008 as Fire Prevention Week. Governor Douglas urged all the people of Vermont to protect their homes and families by heeding the important safety messages of Fire Prevention Week, and to support the many public safety activities and efforts of Vermont’s fire and emergency services.

    The Governor also recognized the outstanding work of all firefighters and other emergency responders throughout Vermont and the special challenges they face this year due to an increased amount of fires resulting from the high heating costs.  

    To keep your home safe from fire hazards review the following information and taking actions that can help you “Prevent Home Fires” during Fire Prevention Week and year-round.

• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms: install alarms in the vicinity of each sleeping area and on every level of the home. For the best protection, interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home.  
•  Heating: Keep all things that can burn, such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least 3 feet away from heating equipment. . If you're buying new heating equipment, always select products listed by an independent testing laboratory. Choose a qualified installer and follow all codes and manufacturers' instructions.

• Cooking: Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period time, turn off the stove.

• Electrical: Replace cracked and damaged electrical cords; use extension cords for temporary wiring only. Consider having additional circuits or receptacles added by a qualified electrician.

• Smoking: If you smoke, smoke outside; wherever you smoke, use deep, sturdy ashtrays.

    While October is known for Fire Prevention Week it is also a good time to check out your home heating equipment because it comes just before the start of the heating season. If you have not done it already now is the time to get your chimney inspected and cleaned.
Fire Prevention Week is actively supported by fire departments across the state and the country. For 85 years fire departments have observed Fire Prevention Week, making it the longest running public health and safety observance on record.

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