January 18th, 2012
As teachers, it is important to teach your students the fundamentals of fire safety. Below are lessons you can use to help make the fire safety activities more enjoyable.
Fire Extinguisher Kit
Have the children bring any size metal can with a plastic lid to school and a box of baking soda or salt. Cover the cans with red construction paper, write FIRE! all over the red paper with a white crayon, and fill them with salt or baking soda.
Slip a note inside the can telling mom that because we have learned NOT to ever throw water on a grease fire (because that would make it bigger), we have made a safe fire extinguisher for the kitchen. Also add instructions that this can is for sitting close to the stove where kitchen fires are apt to begin.
Firefighter Tips
Dress each student in a fire hat and coat (borrowed or from the dress-up clothes) and take pictures of the children wearing them. Then each child tells a fire safety tip. Mount the tip on a paper with their picture and the title “Firefighter Josh says…”
Art Projects
Fire Spatters - Draw a simple house frame with windows onto paper and then duplicate for each child. Let child color, if he/she desires. Then give each student a tiny dot of red in each window. Encourage him/her to blow thru a straw to blow the paint, to create a fire spray effect. Repeat with a tiny dot of yellow in each window.
Fire Painting- Give student a black piece of paper. Squirt thick lines of yellow, red, and orange paint randomly onto the paper. Give the child a piece of saran wrap and lay over the paint. Encourage the child to pull the saran wrap off, using vertical pulling action. Remove saran wrap and let dry. If desired glue on a small fire engine.
Big Red- Run a black line master of a fire engine onto thick tag-board. Then give each child a chance to paint the fire engine red, using finger paint, easel paint, marble painting, etc; (To marble paint, dip marbles in red paint. Place picture in a shallow tray and let the children shake the tray back and forth, creating marble marks; continue until child is satisfied.)
For more information on school fire safety, view:
Schools are for Learning, Not Burning
Tags: elementray fire safety lessons, fire extinguisher, fire prevention, fire safety, Fire Safety Education, fire safety lessons, kids fire safety, school fire safety, teach lessons, teacher fire safety activities
Posted in Children & Fire Safety, Fire & Smoke Alarms, Fire Safety & Electronics, Fire Safety Devices, Fire Safety Education, Fire Safety Tips, Get Involved
No Comments »
January 18th, 2012
With so many fire extinguishers to choose from, selecting the proper one for your home can be a daunting task. Everyone should have at least one fire extinguisher at home, but it’s just as important to ensure you have the proper type of fire extinguisher. Fire protection experts recommend one for the kitchen, the garage and workshop.
Fire extinguishers are divided into four categories, based on different types of fires. Each fire extinguisher also has a numerical rating that serves as a guide for the amount of fire the extinguisher can handle. The higher the number, the more fire-fighting power. The following is a quick guide to help choose the right type of extinguisher.
- Class A extinguishers are for ordinary combustible materials such as paper, wood, cardboard, and most plastics. The numerical rating on these types of extinguishers indicates the amount of water it holds and the amount of fire it can extinguish. Geometric symbol (green triangle)
- Class B fires involve flammable or combustible liquids such as gasoline, kerosene, grease and oil. The numerical rating for class B extinguishers indicates the approximate number of square feet of fire it can extinguish. Geometric symbol (red square)
- Class C fires involve electrical equipment, such as appliances, wiring, circuit breakers and outlets. Never use water to extinguish class C fires – the risk of electrical shock is far too great! Class C extinguishers do not have a numerical rating. The C classification means the extinguishing agent is non-conductive. Geometric symbol (blue circle)
- Class D fire extinguishers are commonly found in a chemical laboratory. They are for fires that involve combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, potassium and sodium. These types of extinguishers also have no numerical rating, nor are they given a multi-purpose rating – they are designed for class D fires only. Geometric symbol (Yellow Decagon)
- Class K fire extinguishers are for fires that involve cooking oils, trans-fats, or fats in cooking appliances and are typically found in restaurant and cafeteria kitchens. Geometric symbol (black hexagon)
Some fires may involve a combination of these classifications. Your fire extinguishers should have ABC ratings on them.
For more information about the use of fire extinguishers, view:
Fire Safety Tips for Your Workplace
Tags: cooking fire safety tips, fire escape plan, fire extinguisher, fire prevention, fire safety, Fire Safety Education, home fire safety
Posted in Fire & Smoke Alarms, Fire Safety & Electronics, Fire Safety Devices, Fire Safety Education, Fire Safety Tips
No Comments »
January 13th, 2012
A chimney fire in action can be impressive. It has been described variously as creating loud cracking and popping noises, a lot of dense smoke and an intense, hot smell. Chimney fires can burn explosively – noisy and dramatic enough to be detected by neighbors or people passing by. Flames or dense smoke may shoot from the top of the chimney. Homeowners report being startled by a low rumbling sound that reminds them of a freight train or a low flying airplane. However, those are only the chimney fires you know about.
Slow-burning chimney fires don’t get enough air or have fuel to be dramatic or visible. But, the temperatures they reach are very high and can cause as much damage to the chimney structure – and nearby combustible parts of the house – as their more spectacular cousins. With proper chimney system care, chimney fires are entirely preventable.
Masonry Chimneys.
When chimney fires occur in masonry chimneys, the high temperatures at which they burn (around 2000°F) can melt mortar, crack tiles, cause liners to collapse and damage the outer masonry material. Most often, tiles crack and mortar is displaced, which provides a pathway for flames to reach the combustible wood frame of the house. One chimney fire may not harm a home. A second can burn it down. Pre-fabricated, factory-built, metal chimneys. To be installed in most jurisdictions in the United States, factory built, metal chimneys that are designed to vent wood burning stoves or pre-fabricated metal fireplaces must pass special tests determined by Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL). Most tests require the chimney to withstand flue temperatures up to 2100°F – without sustaining damage. Under chimney fire conditions, damage to these systems still may occur. When pre-fabricated, factory-built metal chimneys are damaged by a chimney fire, they should no longer be used and must be replaced.
For more information on chimney fires, view:
Creosote Chimney Fires – What You Must Know.
Tags: Albemarle, chimney fire, fire safety, home fire safety, home fires, masonry chimney
Posted in Burns, Children & Fire Safety, Fire & Smoke Alarms, Fire Safety Education, Fire Safety Tips
1 Comment »
December 26th, 2011
Fireplaces and wood stoves are designed to safely contain wood-fuel fires, while providing heat for a home. The chimneys that serve them have the job of expelling the byproducts of combustion – the substances produced when wood burns. These include smoke, water vapor, gases, unburned wood particles, hydrocarbon volatile, tar fog and assorted minerals. As these substances exit the fireplace or wood stove, and flow up into the relatively cooler chimney, condensation occurs.
The resulting residue that sticks to the inner walls of the chimney is called creosote. Creosote is black or brown in appearance. It can be crusty and flaky…tar-like, drippy and sticky…or shiny and hardened. Often, all forms will occur in one chimney system. Whatever form it takes, creosote is highly combustible. If it builds up in sufficient quantities – and catches fire inside the chimney flue instead of the firebox of the fireplace or wood stove – the result will be a chimney fire. Although any amount of creosote can burn, sweeps are concerned when creosote builds up in sufficient quantities to sustain a long, hot, destructive chimney fire. Certain conditions encourage the buildup of creosote. Simply put, restricted air supply, unseasoned wood and cooler-than normal chimney temperatures are all factors that can accelerate the buildup of creosote on chimney flue walls.
Air supplies on fireplaces may be restricted by closed glass doors or by failure to open the damper wide enough to move heated smoke up the chimney rapidly (the longer the smoke’s “residence time” in the flue, the more likely is it that creosote will form). A wood stove’s air supply can be limited by closing down the stove damper or air inlets too soon and too much, and by improperly using the stovepipe damper to restrict air movement. Burning unseasoned wood – because so much energy is used initially just to drive off the water trapped in the cells of the logs– keeps the resulting smoke cooler, as it moves through the system, than if dried seasoned wood is used. In the case of wood stoves, fully packed loads of wood (that give large cool fires and 8 or 10 hour burn times) also contribute to creosote buildup. Cool flue temperatures speed creosote production, too. Condensation of the unburned byproducts of combustion occurs more rapidly in an exterior chimney, for example, than in a chimney that runs through the center of a house and exposes only the upper reaches of the flue to the elements.
For more safety tips on fire places, click here.
Tags: chimney fire, cooking fire safety tips, cresote fire, fire prevention, Fire Safety Education, Fire Safety Tips, home fire safety
Posted in Burns, Children & Fire Safety, Fire & Smoke Alarms, Fire Safety Devices, Fire Safety Education, Fire Safety Tips, Get Involved
2 Comments »
December 24th, 2011
When most of us think of the holidays, we picture roaring fires in our fireplaces, stockings hung on the chimney, and Christmas trees covered in tiny lights and ornaments galore. But along with all the holiday decor comes a slew of safety concerns, particularly around your fireplace.
Here are some things you can do to ensure a fun holiday fireplace experience and keep your family and your home safe at the same time:
- Keep decor, gifts, and other holiday items away from your chimney while you have a fire going. Take consideration of all the decor, not just the stockings hanging off the chimney. Relocate gifts, garland, electric lights, Christmas trees, and anything else that could ignite.
- Your fireplace should have a mesh (or glass) screen you can close to prevent embers from jumping out into the room, so make sure to use it. If you don’t have a screen, have one installed before starting a fire in your fireplace.
- Stovepipe thermostats can be installed to monitor the temperature in your chimney and can be helpful in reminding you when to put out the fire.
- Never use flammable liquids to get your fire started. They can be a mess and can cause the fire to get out of hand.
- Firewood should be placed at the back of your fireplace for safety.
- Only use hard wood to burn your fire, never old magazines, boxes, books, or other items you want to get rid of.
- Every year, have a professional chimney specialist inspect and clean your chimney to ensure it’s working properly. This will help make sure your chimney and flue are free of leaves, twigs, and other debris.
- If you don’t have a smoke alarm in rooms that house fireplaces, install them right away. Make sure to test the batteries and replace them annually to ensure they work properly.
- Most of all, never leave your fire unattended, and never leave children alone when there’s a fire going. Make sure to also extinguish the fire fully before leaving the house or going to bed.
For more information on chimney fire safety, click here.
Tags: chimney fire safety, Earthwise, fire escape plan, fire prevention, fire safety, Fire Safety Education
Posted in Burns, Fire & Smoke Alarms, Fire Safety Education, Fire Safety Tips, Get Involved
No Comments »
November 28th, 2011
The fire death rate among people over the age of 65 is twice as high as the national average, according to the United States Fire Administration (USFA). In addition, the fire death rate among people between ages 75 and 85 is three times the national average and after age 85, it increases to four times the national average. These statistics are especially alarming when researchers estimate that by 2030, the 65 and older population will exceed 70 million people.
Adults 65 years and older can reduce their fire death rate by changing five major fire safety habits:
Change Smoke Alarm Batteries
Having a working smoke alarm can more than double your chances of surviving a fire. Make sure alarms are installed on each level of your home and outside all sleeping areas. If sleeping with bedroom doors closed, the smoke alarms should be installed within each room. Test each alarm monthly and replace the battery at least once a year. Adults who are deaf or hard of hearing should invest in visual aids such as alarms with strobe lights. Flashing or vibrating smoke alarms should also be tested every month.
Change or Update Escape Routes
Many older adults are still using escape routes that were planned when the kids were in the house. Plan and practice your home fire escape. Consider your capabilities when preparing escape routes. Have two ways to get out of each room and if needed, make sure all exits are accessible for walkers or wheelchairs.
Change Unsafe Smoking Habits
Careless smoking is the leading cause of fire deaths among Americans 65 years and older. Make sure that you are alert when you smoke and never smoke in bed. When you are finished smoking, soak the ashes in water before discarding them. Never leave smoking materials unattended, and collect them in large deep ashtrays.
Change Unsafe Cooking Habits
Cooking fires are the leading cause of fire injuries among older adults. When using the stove, never leave cooking food unattended. If you need to step away, turn it off. Also, wear tight-fitting clothing when cooking over an open flame; a dangling sleeve can catch fire easily. Keep towels and potholders away from the flame.
Change Unsafe Heating Practices
Install and maintain heating equipment correctly. Do not store newspapers, rags, or other combustible materials near a furnace, hot water heater, or space heater. Keep flammable materials, such as curtains or furniture, at least three feet from space heaters. Never use a stove as a substitute for a furnace or space heater.
Tags: Albemarle, fire escape plan, fire prevention, fire safety, Fire Safety Education, Fire Safety Tips
Posted in Fire & Smoke Alarms, Fire Saefty Awards, Fire Safety Education, Fire Safety Tips, Get Involved
1 Comment »
November 28th, 2011
We all love to keep warm through winter and aim to do so as cheaply and efficiently as possible. However we should not forget that each type of heat source carries it own type of risk.
Here are some helpful tips on how to keep you and your family safe this winter:
Matches and Lighters
| - |
|
Keep all matches and lighters up high, out of the sight and reach of children. |
| - |
|
Teach children to take matches or lighters to an adult straight away. |
| - |
|
Only use child resistant lighters and safety matchbox holders. |
| - |
|
Child resistant lighters are not child proof! |
Electric Blankets
| - |
|
Check for frayed cords and other damage. |
| - |
|
Ensure your electric blanket is secured to your bed. |
| - |
|
Always turn off your electric blanket at the wall before getting into bed. |
| - |
|
Have blankets checked annually by a competent service person. |
Gas Cabinet Heaters
| - |
|
Don’t use in a confined space and always ensure there is adequate ventilation, for example never use a gas heater in a bedroom. |
| - |
|
Don’t leave anything too close to the heater; objects (including people) should be at least 1m away. Don’t dry clothes on these (or near any other open flames). |
| - |
|
Store and install cylinders in an upright position with the valve uppermost. |
| - |
|
Be careful when changing cylinders. Make sure the valve on the empty cylinder is turned off before disconnecting and the full cylinder is securely connected before turning on. |
| - |
|
For families with children or the elderly or infirm always use a gas heater guard. |
Tags: Earthwise, fire safety, Fire Safety Education, Fire Safety Tips, home fire safety, kids fire safety, winter heating tips
Posted in Fire & Smoke Alarms, Fire Safety Education, Fire Safety Tips, Get Involved, Uncategorized
1 Comment »
November 16th, 2011
Did you change back your clocks for daylight saving time earlier this month? This time of year also marks an important safety milestone.
As our nation moved back to standard time, the U.S. Fire Administration encourages you to mark the occasion as a time to test your home smoke alarms and replace the batteries if more than one year old.
Every day in the United States home fire deaths occur and working smoke alarms significantly increase the chances of surviving a deadly fire. Properly installed and maintained smoke alarm is the only thing in a home that can alert people to a fire 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Whether you’re awake or asleep, a working smoke alarm is constantly on alert scanning the air for fire and smoke.
In addition to changing smoke alarm batteries, Albemarle recommends the following steps to protect lives:
• Dust or vacuum smoke alarms when changing the batteries.
• Check alarms once a month using the test button.
• Replace the entire alarm if it is more than 10 years old or does not work properly when tested.
• Install smoke alarms on every level of a home, including the basement, and both inside and outside sleeping areas.
• For the best protection, equip a home with a combination of ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms or dual sensor alarms.
• Interconnect all smoke alarms so when one sounds, they all sound.
• Make sure everyone in a home understands the warning of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond to an emergency.
• Finally, prepare and practice an escape plan so everyone can get out of a home safely should there be a fire. Plan to meet in a place a safe distance from the fire in a spot easily spotted by first responders.
For more clock changing, fire safety tips, click here.
Tags: Albemarle, electronics fire safety, fire prevention, fire safety, fire safety checklist, Fire Safety Education, Fire Safety Tips, smoke detectors
Posted in Fire & Smoke Alarms, Fire Safety & Electronics, Fire Safety Devices, Fire Safety Education, Fire Safety Tips, Get Involved
No Comments »
October 24th, 2011
Believe it or not, according to the National Fire Protection Association, each year more than 1,000 house fires are accidentally started by pets. Pet proofing your home against potential fire hazards could save your life and the lives of your favorite four-legged friends.
We suggest practicing the following tips to keep you, your family and your pets safe.
- Be sure to secure wires and cords. Cats are especially interested in playing with anything that looks like string. Keep electrical wires and power cords secured and out of your pet’s reach.
- Don’t leave lit candles unattended, remember to blow them out when you are not in the same room. Pets may burn themselves or cause a fire if they knock the candles over.
- Pets are naturally curious and will investigate almost anything that has a scent, including your oven. Did you know, exploring stove tops is the number one way your pet can accidentally start a fire?
- There is no such thing as too many smoke detectors. Your home should have at least one on each floor of your home and especially outside of each bedroom.
- In the event of an emergency, placing a pet rescue sticker alerts rescue workers that animals are inside your home. Write down the number of pets inside and attach the sticker to a front window or door
For more information on pet protection within your home, view:
Prepare Your Fiddo and Kitty When You Escape from a Fire.
Tags: fire escape plan, fire prevention, fire safety, Fire Safety Education, Kitchen Fire Safety Tips, pet fire protection, pets
Posted in Fire & Smoke Alarms, Fire Safety & Electronics, Fire Safety Devices, Fire Safety Education, Fire Safety Tips, Pets & Fire
No Comments »
September 29th, 2011
Maryland and Nevada recently updated their school bus fire safety standards, so why is the rest of the nation still relying on regulations from the 1960’s to protect their children? Well, CFFSI is hoping to change that, state by state, in the fall session.
With more than 1.5 Million children riding school buses in the US each day, it is shocking that national fire safety standards have not kept pace with the evolution of modern technology. Maryland and Nevada recognized the need to protect big yellows from the dangers of fast spreading flames and codified standards to set a maximum burn rate for the seats and engine components.
For more information view:
Citizens for Fire Safety
Nevada and Maryland Drive School Bus Fire Safety for our Kids with New Law
Tags: burn awareness week, fire escape plan, fire extinguisher, fire preparedness, fire prevention, fire safety, Fire Safety Education, Fire Safety for All, school bus fire safety
Posted in Children & Fire Safety, Fire & Smoke Alarms, Fire Saefty Awards, Fire Safety & Electronics, Fire Safety Conferences & Events, Fire Safety Education, Fire Safety Tips, Get Involved, Uncategorized
No Comments »
