Friday, September 3, 2010
Home   Tags/Videos   Events   Partners   Contact
Archive for February, 2010
Wag’N Enterprises Winter Pet Safety Tips
Friday, February 19th, 2010

GUEST POST from our friends at Wag’N Enterprises:

One of the best ways to get through bad snow storms is to stay inside. If you know that a major snow storm is headed in your direction, make sure that you have enough supplies for a few days.

FIRE HYDRANTS
Because we cannot protect successfully against all fire hazards, make sure you mark fire hydrants in your community. If snow plows cover them make sure to prioritize these spots. Make notice on paper where all the hydrants are in your area. Should they be covered you will at least be able to communicate with your fire department and locate them faster.

POWER ISSUES
During very severe snow storms, it is possible for the power to go out. In order to prepare for this, it is good to have flashlights, replacement batteries, candles, and matches on hand. Candles must however be handled with extreme care to reduce fire hazards.

DOWNED POWER LINES
National Weather Service reminds us of the following:
Winter weather can cause power lines to fall to the ground. Never touch, move or go near any kind of downed or hanging line, even if it looks harmless.

Use extreme caution! Stay away from any downed lines because it may be dangerous. Getting near it could cause serious bodily injury or even death. In fact, anything touching a downed line may be dangerous. Warn others to stay away. Immediately report a downed line to your local utility company emergency center and in addition call your local police. Do not assume that the downed line is merely a telephone or cable television line. Do not put your feet into a puddle where a downed line is laying. In some instances wet or snow-covered ground can conduct electricity. Don not try to move tree limbs that are on or near power line. Remember, only knowledgeable utility company employees or someone under their supervision who is protected by the appropriate safety equipment should touch or move a downed line.

If you see someone who has been shocked and is in direct or indirect contact with a downed power line do not try to touch the person. Efforts to pull an electric shock victim away could make you a second victim. Never attempt to remove a power line. The only safe procedure is to immediately call your local police or emergency services and your local utility company’s emergency center.

If a power line falls on a car, you should stay inside the vehicle. This is the safest place to stay under the circumstances. Honk your horn to alert passers-by. Roll down the window and warn people not to touch the car or the line. Ask someone to call the local utility company and emergency services. The only circumstances in which you should consider leaving a car that is in contact with a downed power line is if the vehicle catches on fire; open the door, but do not step out. Make sure that you jump completely free of the vehicle with both feet together to avoid contact with the live car (metal) and the ground at the same time. Hop as far away as possible from the vehicle keeping both feet together.

Remember, winter storms can bring down power lines. When line are down, stay away. Warn others to stay away and call your electric company or emergency services.

KEEP CANDLES OUT OF REACH OF PETS AND CHILDREN -  CANDLE SAFETY
Tails and children should not be able to easily access the candles. The candle holder should be completely noncombustible and difficult to knock over. The candle should not have combustible/flammable decorations around it.
Keep matches out of reach of children and pets. They can start a fire in the hands of kids and be poisonous to pets.

It is best to purchase large candles that either come in or can be placed inside of a slightly larger glass jar. Taper candles that fit into candlesticks have open flames that can cause a fire hazard. Large votive candles inside of a fire-proof container are less likely to cause a problem. Be sure, however, to keep all candles away from curtains and any flammable material.
Candles are naked flames, so handle them very carefully:

  • Don’t leave them burning in a room with no one in it.
  • Don’t put them in or by plants, flowers or foliage, blankets, curtains, etc
  • Make sure they’re in holders that won’t fall over.
  • Put night lights or tea lights on a heat-resistant surface.
  • Keep them away from curtains and furniture, and not under a surface, like a shelf.
  • Don’t put them where they could be knocked over easily or where people could burn their clothes or hair on them.
  • Make sure they’re completely out – not smoldering.
  • Keep children and pets away
  • Keep candles at least 4 inches (10 cm) apart

VENTURING OUTSIDE
If you must venture out of your home during a snow storm, be sure to wear warm clothing and sensible shoes. It is best to wear boots with strong rubber treads. If you are going to go a far distance on foot, it is advisable to bring a thermos of some warm liquid such as tea or coffee with you. Drinking warm liquids can help you to stay warm on your journey. It is also advisable to bring a mobile telephone with you so that you can make an emergency call if necessary.

TRAVELING BY CAR
If you have to travel by car during a snow storm, tell someone that you are leaving from POINT A (address) and what route you are planning on taking to POINT B (destination). Do not deviate. Give them an estimated travel time. The chances you will be found are greater if someone knows you are traveling and what routes you are taking. Make sure that your vehicle has the appropriate tires and that they are in good condition (enough tire pressure). You may want to invest in chains that you can wrap around your tires if you get stuck in a snowdrift. Check your state law. Chains are illegal in many states.
Avoid driving in blizzard conditions with non four wheel drive vehicles!

SNOW/ICE DRIVING TIPS
First of all, don’t break on ice! Your reflexes need to be kept in check. Treat your breaks gently.
Decelerate rather than brake. That means get your foot OFF the accelerator rather than brake. Then Shift to Lower Gear.
A majority of cars have gears lower than Drive. Gear under the “D” is generally 3rd or 2nd. The one below that is 1st. You get better performance in snow the lower you place your gears. Third and/or Second are preferred. First Gear should only be use at very slow speeds or to achieve braking faster.
Drive slowly. Your Jeep can make it to 60mph but when you that icy spot you’ll be sliding out of control at 60mph. So keep it near 30-40mph if must travel faster on snow covered roads.

Do NOT counter steer if the car starts sliding on ice. Here is why. If you are traveling in a straight line and the car starts sliding, your tires are still straight. When the slide ends the car will keep going straight (were you left it). If you counter steer your tires will now be dramatically pointing left or right and when you regain control those tires will now take you to an extreme left or right. That’s how you end up in the ditch, tree or traffic.
Be sure that your windshield wipers are in good condition as well. It is important for you to drive with the best possible visibility during a snow storm.Windshield wiper fluids should be replaced or mixed with winterized fluids to sustain sub-freezing temperatures.

Never leave without a full tank of gas. Refuel along the way to ensure you remain above 1/2 a tank.

IF STRANDED
Run your car for about 10 minutes each hour. Turn off the lights and radio when the car is not running to avoid running the battery down. Keep flares in the car. If you find yourself stranded in a remote area, don’t go venture out. You will be much safer inside the car.
** If you are stuck once the snowstorm has passed, raise the hood of your car to signal an emergency. You can also post a flag or tie the handkerchief to the antenna to signal you need help.
** Ration your supplies. Eat small snacks every hour or so to give your body an energy source with which to generate heat. Drink about 4 ounces (half cup) of water every hour or so to prevent dehydration.

Important car emergency kit components include:

  • Blankets
  • Flashlight
  • Extra batteries
  • Towels
  • Shovel
  • Windshield scraper and small broom
  • Keep hand warmers
  • Thermal heat blankets
  • Battery powered radio
  • Water (at least 1 Gallon per person)
  • The food you keep must be non-perishable & eatable without cooking or heating necessary and with high protein content
  • Matches
  • Extra snow hats, socks and mittens
  • Snowboard or ski pants (if possible to keep your lower body dry if you try to dig yourself out. Body temperature is lost in head, neck, under arm, groin area and feet)
  • First aid kit with pocket knife
  • Duct Tape
  • Necessary medications
  • Tow chain or rope
  • Road salt and sand
  • Booster cables
  • Emergency flares
  • Fluorescent distress flag
  • Seat Belt Cutters (keep them in center console)
  • Snow Boots
  • Sleeping bag
  • Toilet Paper
  • Keep an empty plastic container for inside the car bathroom breaks
  • Newspaper (to place inside clothes to maintain body warmth)
  • Consider carrying your emergency kit in a small duffel bag and storing it in the passenger’s footwell, where it can be easily accessed by the driver (and where it won’t become a projectile in a collision).

PETS IN THE STORM
Winter storms don’t just affect you – they also affect your pets. And your pets depend on you for their safety. There are many ways to be “Pet Prepared,” but you must think ahead and start planning NOW. Also, consult our All-Hazards Preparedness Checklist for Cats & Dogs, and for small animals so that you can be prepared for any weather emergency. During a winter storm, if you see an injured or stranded animal that needs help, contact your local animal control officer or animal shelter. Get that number pre-programmed in your phone NOW while you have power.

OUTDOOR PETS
Some pets are better suited than others for living outdoors. There is a common misconception that dogs will be “fine” if left outside. This is not true! Pets are not wolves. All pets need adequate shelter from the elements and insulation against cold weather. Pets should not be left outside for long periods in freezing weather – like humans, they can suffer from hypothermia and frostbite.

Certain breeds, such as Huskies and Samoyeds are better suited to very cold weather, but the majority of dogs need your help and intervention. That does not mean you can leave them outside if they are not used to the elements.Indoor accommodations are best during extreme temperature drops, but if that is not possible, set up a suitable house in an area protected from wind, rain, and snow. Insulation, such as straw or blankets will help keep in body heat. If your animal is prone to chewing, do not use blankets or material that can be ingested. Cedar shavings can be irritating to the skin, so use with caution depending on your pet’s hair coat.

CAUTION
DO NOT use a heat lamp, space heater, or other device not approved for use with animals. This is a a burn hazard for your pet and a fire hazard. Pet supply vendors sell heated mats for pets to sleep on or to be placed under a dog house, but read and follow directions carefully before use.
Fresh water is a must at all times! Pets are not able to get enough water from licking ice or eating snow. A heated dish is a wonderful tool for cold climates. The water stays cold, but doesn’t freeze. Caution needed for animals that may chew.
If you have “NO PETS INSIDE THE RESIDENCE” policy please consider the barn and a garage or laundry room as an emergency exception.

ANIMAL FOOT CARE
Dogs walking in snowy areas may get large ice balls between their pads, causing the dog to limp. Be sure to keep ice clear from this area. For dogs that have a lot of hair between the pads, keeping it clipped shorter will help with ice ball formation. Dog boots offer protection to those dogs that will tolerate wearing them.

SALT AND CHEMICAL DEICERS
Pets who walk on sidewalks that have been “de-iced” are prone to dry, chapped, and potentially painful paws. This will encourage the pet to lick their paws, and ingestion may cause gastrointestinal irritation and upset. Wash off your pet’s feet after an outing with a warm wet cloth or foot bath.

FROZEN LAKES AND PONDS
Animals don’t realize what “thin ice” is. Once they fall in, it is very difficult for them to climb out and hypothermia is a very real and life-threatening danger. “Ice skating” dogs are prone to injuries such as cruciate tears if allowed to “skate” with their humans. This is also true of icy walks.

ANTIFREEZE DANGERS
Thirsty and curious pets will lap up antifreeze. Just a few licks can be fatal. All antifreeze containers have warnings. The best way to mitigate a pet emergency is to ensure that your pets are not placed in direct contact with any container that has safety warnings. So lock up antifreeze containers and clean up spills immediately.
Place ALL chemical containers out of your kids and pets reach. Especially if you decide to leave the pet in the garage as your pets may get bored and decide to chew up what’s left available. Same applies to electrical cords. Also, do NOT start the car in a closed garage – for your safety and your pet’s safety – carbon monoxide poisoning is a silent killer.

HEAT-SEEKERS BEWARE!
Cats and little critters will seek warmth where they can get it, and that may be the warm engine of a car just parked. Before staring your car, knock on the hood or honk the horn to scare off any cats – and prevent tragedy.

ARTHRITIC ANIMALS
Arthritis is worse during cold and damp weather. Take special care to handle your pet gently, watch out for icy walks, provide soft (and possibly heated) bedding, and administer any necessary medications.Do not leave these pets out in the cold for longer periods of time.

TOP COLD WEATHER TIPS

1. Keep your cat inside. Outdoors, felines can freeze, become lost or be stolen, injured or killed. Cats who are allowed to stray are exposed to infectious diseases, including rabies, from other cats, dogs and wildlife.

2. During the winter, outdoor cats sometimes sleep under the hoods of cars. When the motor is started, the cat can be injured or killed by the fan belt. If there are outdoor cats in your area, bang loudly on the car hood before starting the engine to give the cat a chance to escape.

3. Never let your dog off the leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm-dogs can lose their scent and easily become lost. More dogs are lost during the winter than during any other season, so make sure yours always wears ID tags.

4. Thoroughly wipe off your dog’s legs and stomach when he comes in out of the sleet, snow or ice. He can ingest salt, antifreeze or other potentially dangerous chemicals while licking his paws, and his paw pads may also bleed from snow or encrusted ice.

5. Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter, as a longer coat will provide more warmth. When you bathe your dog in the colder months, be sure to completely dry him before taking him out for a walk. Own a short-haired breed? Consider getting him a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck with coverage from the base of the tail to the belly. For many dogs, this is regulation winter wear. If you did shave your dog recently make sure to take them out for walks with a coat!

6. Never leave your dog or cat alone in a car during cold weather. A car can act as a refrigerator in the winter, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death.

7. Puppies do not tolerate the cold as well as adult dogs, and may be difficult to housebreak during the winter. If your puppy appears to be sensitive to the weather, you may opt to paper-train him inside. If your dog is sensitive to the cold due to age, illness or breed type, take him outdoors only to relieve himself.

8. Does your dog spend a lot of time engaged in outdoor activities? Increase his supply of food, particularly protein, to keep him-and his fur-in tip-top shape.

9. Like coolant, antifreeze is a lethal poison for dogs and cats. Be sure to thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol.

10. Make sure your companion animal has a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from all drafts. A cozy dog or cat bed with a warm blanket or pillow is perfect.

11. Keep the Regular Poison Control Center # and the ASPCA Phone # in your phone.
ASPCA Poison Control # is (888) 426-4435. A $65 consultation fee is be applied to your credit card.
Regular poison control # is 1-800-222-1222 and is free. In most cases they can also help your pets.

About Wag’N 4 U Enterprises:

Wag’N offers pet parents and first responders the necessary gear, supplies and training to effectively mitigate, prepare and respond to emergencies that impact pet health and safety. We love our pets and we want to keep them safe from any type of hurt. Of course that is the goal. Whether we can achieve that goal depends on variable factors: Are we willing, ready and do we know how? At Wag’N, we aim to provide the best products and services available to make sure that the pets you love so dearly are cared for appropriately to prevent an unfortunate situation from becoming a full blown emergency. Our branded products, Wag’N Pet Safety Gear, are an ever-growing collection of purposefully designed and crafted tools to help people and their pets go about their life?s with peace of mind that they have the necessary tools and knowledge needed in case of an emergency.

The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina lead to the emergence of a new field in emergency management. Ines de Pablo, our CWO, is the creator and architect behind the concept of Pet Emergency Management Taking the emergency management cycle concepts of all-hazards mitigation, preparedness, response & recovery to the pet world to ensure we can you can help prevent, prepare & respond to pet health related emergencies.

LiveSafe Foundation is an Ohio based non-profit organization (501c3), and leading grassroots movement, devoted to making fire safety education, awareness initiatives and life saving tools available on a broad basis to communities, campuses, and institutions in an effort to reduce national fire fatalities and fire losses. LiveSafe aims to help finance fire safety education where means are otherwise unavailable. LiveSafe is developing and sponsoring programs to help groups find the resources needed to advance individual and community fire safety.


Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Fire Protection | No Comments »

Placing a 9-1-1 Call: What You Should Know
Friday, February 19th, 2010

Placing a 9-1-1 Call: What You Should Know

Dublin, OH- When an emergency, such as a fire occurs, it’s easy to become panicked and confused. As a result, many 9-1-1 calls made to emergency dispatchers are often not complete, thus hindering the fire department’s ability to arrive quickly to the scene. By knowing what to expect when you call 9-1-1 and making a few simple preparations, you can steer clear of the common mistakes people make when they place an emergency phone call.

  • Keep the 9-1-1 number posted on every telephone in your house and ask neighbors to do the same. Make the call from inside your home only if you are trapped. Otherwise, get out, report to your family’s agreed upon meeting place, and call the fire department from a neighbor’s phone or cell phone.
  • Speak clearly and calmly. Give the dispatcher the location of the emergency and a brief description of the incident you are reporting. Be prepared to answer questions such as location, address, name, and telephone number. Stay on the phone until you have answered all the dispatcher’s questions and he or she says it’s OK to hang up. Help is being dispatched at the same time the call taker is continuing to gather additional information.
  • If your call is a medical emergency, the dispatcher will provide pre-arrival medical instructions telling you what to do before medics arrive.
  • Do not program 9-1-1 into your phone. It is too easy to accidentally call the number. If you dial 9-1-1 in error, DO NOT hang up. With the enhanced 9-1-1 features in our area, the caller’s address and telephone number is automatically identified for the dispatcher’s reference. Instead, stay on the line and let the dispatcher know you made a mistake. Otherwise he/she will send emergency crews to your address and needlessly tie up resources from real emergencies.
  • If you use a cell phone to place an emergency call, the dispatcher receives your call back number and the approximate location from which you are calling. It is imperative that you stay on the line and tell the dispatcher the exact location of the emergency.
  • Make sure your house number is displayed with large numbers (at least four inches high) in a contrasting color that can be seen easily from the road.
  • If your home is situated far off the road, be sure your driveway is well marked with your street address.
  • Share with your children and family members that making false emergency calls as a joke is a crime that costs lives. False alarms tie up emergency telephone lines and endanger emergency personnel driving to the scene.
  • Once emergency personnel arrive, ensure they have current medical information for your family at their disposal by posting on your refrigerator a Vial of Life form for each member of your family. The Vial of Life form, if completed and kept current, can provide valuable information (medical history, medications, emergency contacts, doctor’s names etc.) that will help paramedics expediteemergency medical treatment and/or transition to a physician’s care. Vial of Life forms are available on the Township’s web site, www.wtwp.com, or by request at 614-652-3920.

They are especially helpful when the person in need of medical care cannot speak or isn’t old enough to be able to provide the necessary information, or when by-standers or family members are panicked or confused and have difficulty remembering all the details paramedics need.

Visit link to learn more about  the History of the 911 call.

“Line of Duty” Author: Fire Marshal Alan Perkins, CFPS, Washington Township Fire Department, Dublin, Ohio. For more information, contact: Leslie Dybiec, Public Information Officer Phone: (614) 652-3928 Fax: (614) 766-2507 or ldybiec@wtwp.com.

LiveSafe Foundation is an Ohio based non-profit organization (501c3), and leading grassroots movement, devoted to making fire safety education, awareness initiatives and life saving tools available on a broad basis to communities, campuses, and institutions in an effort to reduce national fire fatalities and fire losses. LiveSafe aims to help finance fire safety education where means are otherwise unavailable. LiveSafe is developing and sponsoring programs to help groups find the resources needed to advance individual and community fire safety.

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Line of Duty | No Comments »

Space Heater Safety Precautions
Friday, February 19th, 2010

Did you know that heating equipment is the leading cause of home fire deaths? During the winter months, it’s enjoyable to sit fireside and read a good book, but safety must be practiced. Furthermore, space Heaters can help you save on your heating costs, but the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) urges people to follow these safety precautions when using electric or fuel-fired heaters and fireplaces:

  • Buy a reliable heater. Look for the label stating that your space heater has been approved by an independent testing laboratory and meets safety standards. Choose models with safety features like an automatic switch that turns off the heater if it tips over.
  • Place your heater in a safe location – on a hard, level surface with sufficient ventilation and at least three feet away from anything that might catch fire, like furniture, draperies, newspapers, etc. Also, keep it clear of sinks, tubs, or any other sources of water that might lead to an electric shock.
  • Check your cords. Don’t use equipment with cords that are frayed or damaged in any way, and don’t plug your heater into an extension cord.
  • Install and maintain alarms. Your home should have working detectors for smoke and carbon monoxide on every floor. Test them thoroughly and frequently.
  • Never leave your heater unattended. Turn it off when you go to bed or leave the home.

Download a printable tip sheet on heating safety from the NFPA.

LiveSafe Foundation is an Ohio based non-profit organization (501c3), and leading grassroots movement, devoted to making fire safety education, awareness initiatives and life saving tools available on a broad basis to communities, campuses, and institutions in an effort to reduce national fire fatalities and fire losses. LiveSafe aims to help finance fire safety education where means are otherwise unavailable.  LiveSafe is developing and sponsoring programs to help groups find the resources needed to advance individual and community fire safety.

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Be Prepared | No Comments »

A Valentine’s Extreme Home Makeover with Home Fire Sprinklers and more!
Wednesday, February 10th, 2010

This Sunday, February 14, 2010, ABC’s Extreme Makeover-Home Edition will feature a two-hour Valentine’s Makeover from 8:00-10:00pm featuring the installation of a fully sprinklered home and more!  Ty Pennington takes his team to Prince George’s County, Maryland where he’s going to help the Tripp family. Over the years they have helped the kids in the local community by running a bus service and offering activities, which they supervise to make sure they are kept safe in what is generally a rough area. Maryland based Livingston Fire Protection, fully sprinklered two properties, donating over three weeks of design, more than 500 hours of field installation, fabrication and trucking time, as well as many hours of dedicated employee’s time.

Recent Studies prove that sprinklers protect the environment.  According to the research and reports from a study performed in a collaborative effort of FM Global and the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition they identified the following points:

“At a January 19, 2010 press conference at the International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas,  Christopher Wieczorek, PhD, a senior research specialist at FM Global, showed side-by-video of the rooms burning. Forty-four seconds after ignition, the single sprinkler head in the protected living room activated and began to fight the fire, while fire raged in the unprotected room. After five minutes, the fire in the sprinklered room continued to be contained, while in the unprotected room, every combustible item was burning.

After the test, FM Global compared the environmental impact of each fire, specifically:

  • the types, quantity and duration of air and water pollutants released from a home fire
  • water usage from fire sprinklers and firefighters’ hoses
  • the environmental impact resulting from burning household furnishings and finish materials as well as disposing the fire-damaged contents of a home
  • the carbon footprint associated with rebuilding a burnt home

Announcing the initial findings of the study, Dr. Wieczorek said that in the event of a home fire where sprinklers are present:

  • the release of greenhouse gases (CO2) are reduced by 99%
  • the amount of water usage is reduced by 50%
  • the amount of fire damage to the room is less than 3%, compared to a 100% loss in the unprotected room

Dr. Wieczorek added that the amount of materials burned by the fire that had to go into a landfill, and the amount of raw materials needed to rebuild after a fire were also reduced.”

NFPA, who is committed to the Fire sprinkler Initiative,  is doing all they can to bring a higher level of safety to our homes. According to their studies:

  • Roughly 84% of all civilian fire deaths in 2007 resulted from home structure fires.
  • If you have a reported fire in your home, the risk of dying decreases by about 80% when sprinklers are present.

Sprinkler advocates across the country have asked for a coordinated effort to encourage the use of home fire sprinklers. NFPA has launched that effort through the “Fire Sprinkler Initiative®: Bringing Safety Home.” The initiative includes a variety of proven, effective ways that home fire sprinkler advocates can communicate the impact of sprinklers.

This Web site provides resources for the fire service and other sprinkler advocates who want to demonstrate the need for home fire sprinklers in their community. Tools and field resources available in the website help advocates talk with local elected officials and others about the life-saving impact of sprinklers.

In addition, the site contains information to help home fire sprinkler advocates navigate the legislative process to get sprinkler ordinances introduced and passed in their communities and allow them to come together to share their ideas, successes, and tools with other advocates across the country.

The Fire Sprinkler Initiative, in cooperation with many other interested individuals and organizations, encourages the use of home fire sprinklers through increased awareness and adoption of local ordinances or model codes.

For more information, please visit www.firesprinklerinitiative.org or www.nfpa.org for more information.

LiveSafe Foundation is an Ohio based non-profit organization (501c3), and leading grassroots movement, devoted to making fire safety education, awareness initiatives and life saving tools available on a broad basis to communities, campuses, and institutions in an effort to reduce national fire fatalities and fire losses. LiveSafe aims to help finance fire safety education where means are otherwise unavailable. LiveSafe is developing and sponsoring programs to help groups find the resources needed to advance individual and community fire safety.

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Be Prepared | No Comments »

Valentine’s Day Gifts to put out Your Fire
Tuesday, February 9th, 2010

Ah, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner as we officially said goodbye to January, the first month of the year. For many, January was a month of resolutions when we challenge ourselves to make revolutionary changes. Resolutions are great, but they can be undone so quickly. So rather than resolutions, consider providing ourselves and loved ones practical and life saving gifts.

Is the value of your Valentine’s Day tied up in a gift?

One sure-fire way you can make a difference on Valentine’s Day is to provide your sweetheart a priceless gift that says, “I want you around for a long time”.   You can still have a little fun and throw in something sweet, but don’t forget to include something to “put out the fire” such as these items recommended by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

HappyValentinesDay

  • Carbon monoxide detectors — to alert loved ones of a silent killer: carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas formed when fuels-such as natural gas, oil, and wood burn incompletely. While a carbon monoxide detector won’t help keep your loved ones safe from fire, it’s something you should consider for home safety.
  • Smoke alarms — are one of the best fire-safety items for the home. Seventy percent of all home fire fatalities occur in homes where there are no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. Consider smoke alarms for everyone on your list. Smoke alarms for people who are deaf or hard of hearing include strobe lights, high decibels and/or vibration. All smoke alarms should be replaced after 10 years.
  • Flashlights — prevent fires by using flashlights instead of candles during power outages.
  • Sturdy candleholders — help prevent tip-over when candles are lit. Lantern-style candle holders can reduce the likelihood of something coming in contact with a candle flame.
  • A secure fireplace screen — keeps embers out of the room.
  • Long fireplace matches — prevents burns.
  • Gift certificates for clean-up services — to remove fire-prone clutter from basements, attics or yards; or for chimney sweeps to prevent creosote build-up that can cause chimney fires.
  • A bathrobe with tight-fitting sleeves — that won’t touch stove burners while cooking.
  • Down or synthetic comforters, flannel sheets or flannel pajamas – to keep a loved one warm, and to reduce the need for space heaters, particularly at night. Generally, space heaters (fixed and portable) are involved in two-thirds of home heating fire deaths.
  • Large, deep, non-tip ashtrays — to help prevent smoking materials from igniting materials nearby.
  • Portable fire extinguishers — with safety tips on how to use them. Make sure the recipient reads and understands the instructions before having to use them. A multi-purpose and dry-chemical type is recommended.
  • Fireproof oven mitts — for stove or barbecue grill to help prevent burns.
  • Large house numbers — to help firefighters locate a home at night quickly during an emergency.
  • Batteries for smoke alarms and flashlight
  • Whistles

    • Facts and figures to consider for seasonal safety:

    • December, January and February are the deadliest months for fires.
    • Cooking and heating are the leading causes of home fires in the months of December through February.
    • Candle fires have nearly tripled in the past decade.

    And what you might ask, is the hottest Valentines Day gift this year?

    LIVESAFE T-Shirts, Caps, Logo Apparel and Gift Items!
    Yes, for the person who has *everything*, why not purchase an authentic LIVESAFE T-Shirt, Cap or Apparel Item? It’s a gift you know they will wear with pride, and a gift you can feel good about giving.

    Proceeds from apparel sales will support TEAM RISE: Members of Team RISE (Runners Inspired by Survivors Everywhere) are preparing to put their running shoes on this spring to raise money for the Phoenix Society.  On May 2, 2010 for the sixth time the group will be participating in Cincinnati’s Flying Pig marathon.  Team leader and event organizer, Bill Zembrodt, is encouraging other Phoenix Society members to join the team for this year’s event. www.phoenix-society.org.

    Please accept our wishes for a joyous, memorable – and safe Valentines Day!

    For product information and safety supplies, please visit our Programmatic Partner the National Institute for Fire and Safety Training online web store for product and other fire safety related information.

    Photo Chart: Google Images

    LiveSafe Foundation is an Ohio based non-profit organization (501c3), and leading grassroots movement, devoted to making fire safety education, awareness initiatives and life saving tools available on a broad basis to communities, campuses, and institutions in an effort to reduce national fire fatalities and fire losses. LiveSafe aims to help finance fire safety education where means are otherwise unavailable. LiveSafe is developing and sponsoring programs to help groups find the resources needed to advance individual and community fire safety.

    Tags: , , , , , , , ,
    Posted in Fire Protection | No Comments »

    Preventing Electrical, Chemical and Thermal Burns
    Monday, February 8th, 2010

    National Burn Awareness Week is February 7-13, 2010. Because burn injuries are common in the U.S., especially among children, increasing awareness about how to prevent burn injuries and knowing what to do if you get burned is especially crucial. The three most common types of burns are electrical, chemical, and thermal.

    Help prevent electrical burns by installing outlet plug covers, using extension cords wisely by not exceeding the load rating, discarding damaged cords and unplugging appliances before repairing them. Also, never use electrical appliances such as hair dryers, electric shavers, or curling irons near water. Prevent chemical burns by using cabinet locks to prevent children from accessing any stored chemicals. Use caution when purchasing chemicals and, when possible, try to select chemicals that are less toxic and therefore less dangerous to children should they be accidentally exposed.

    Many thermal burns occur outdoors (sun exposure) and in the kitchen and bathroom. To prevent thermal burns, apply sunscreen and limit your sun exposure. In the kitchen, turn pot handles toward the center of your stove so they cannot be easily bumped. Use back burners when children are present; use splatter shields when frying; and monitor children near the stove. Be cautious when moving hot pots or uncovering hot microwaved items. Use heat-resistant pot holders for both hands. In the bathroom, unplug hair dryers and curling irons when they are not in use and keep them out of reach of children. Adjust bath water for younger children, ensuring that it is not warmer than 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Treatment varies depending on the type of burn. For electrical burns, first protect yourself by not going near or touching the victim until you are sure the power has been turned off, the plug has been disconnected from the source, or the victim is free from electricity. For both wet and dry chemical burns, treatment involves removal of the product according to the label directions and instructions from Poison Control (1-800-222-1222).

    Treatment for thermal burns is dependent on many factors including the type of burn, severity, the person’s medical history, age, and condition. Many situations can be addressed with basic first aid while others require professional medical treatment.

    If you are interested to learn basic first aid you can use to treat minor burns, call the Washington Township Fire Department at 614-652-3920 to register for a first aid class. For more information about burn prevention and safety, pick up a free brochure at the Fire Administration Building or one of our four fire stations.

    “Line of Duty” Author: Fire Marshal Alan Perkins, CFPS, Washington Township Fire Department, Dublin, Ohio. For more information, contact: Leslie Dybiec, Public Information Officer Phone: (614) 652-3928 Fax: (614) 766-2507 or ldybiec@wtwp.com.

    LiveSafe Foundation is an Ohio based non-profit organization (501c3), and leading grassroots movement, devoted to making fire safety education, awareness initiatives and life saving tools available on a broad basis to communities, campuses, and institutions in an effort to reduce national fire fatalities and fire losses. LiveSafe aims to help finance fire safety education where means are otherwise unavailable.  LiveSafe is developing and sponsoring programs to help groups find the resources needed to advance individual and community fire safety.

    Tags: , , , , , ,
    Posted in Line of Duty | No Comments »

    What household chore could start a fire?
    Wednesday, February 3rd, 2010

    Is it taking too long for your clothes to dry? Maybe its not your dryer.

    You probably know that you need to clean off your dryer’s lint screen before each use, but you may not know that lint can also build up in the dryer’s vent and decrease efficiency. Any exhaust that is clear of lint and other debris allows heat, moisture and carbon monoxide to leave your home, but build-up can add to your utility bill, cause more wear and tear to your clothes and shorten the lifespan of your dryer; it can also create such potentially hazardous conditions as carbon monoxide intrusion and the possibility of fire.

    To prevent any of these from happening, you should have a certified technician inspect and clean your dryer’s vent, exhaust and duct. To find a certified professional, visit the Chimney Safety Institute of America’s (CSIA) website at www.csia.org.

    ReLintless

    Images: Google images, www.cartoonstock.com

    LiveSafe Foundation is an Ohio based non-profit organization (501c3), and leading grassroots movement, devoted to making fire safety education, awareness initiatives and life saving tools available on a broad basis to communities, campuses, and institutions in an effort to reduce national fire fatalities and fire losses. LiveSafe aims to help finance fire safety education where means are otherwise unavailable.  LiveSafe is developing and sponsoring programs to help groups find the resources needed to advance individual and community fire safety.

    Tags: , , , ,
    Posted in Fire Protection | No Comments »

    Clothes Dryer Safety
    Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010

    Numerous appliance products, if not properly installed, used and maintained, can become fire hazards. One appliance often overlooked in the home is the clothes dryer. According to the National Fire Protection Association, in 2006, more than 16,000 home structure fires were caused by this appliance. And the leading cause of these fires was a lack of maintenance. Items such as clothing, dust, fiber, or lint, normally found in a dryer, accounted for 60% of the combustible materials first ignited in clothes dryer fires. To avoid a clothes dryer fire, follow these essential safety precautions:

    • Clean the lint filter in the dryer before or after each use because accumulated dust and lint can be a fire hazard. Do not operate the dryer without the filter. Also, remove accumulated lint around the drum.
    • Make sure that the dryer is plugged into an outlet suitable for its electrical needs as overloaded electrical outlets can result in blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers.
    • Verify that the exhaust vent pipe is not restricted by snow, leaves, or other materials and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating. Rigid or flexible metal venting material should be used to sustain proper air flow and drying time.
    • Do not leave the dryer running if you leave your home because, if it malfunctions, no one will be there to avert a possible disaster.
    • Keep the dryer area clear of combustibles such as boxes and clothing.
    • Never dry items that have come in contact with flammable substances such as cooking oil, gasoline, paint thinner or alcohol. Even after washing, clothing can still contain residues that can ignite.
    • Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional.

    It is important to keep dryers in good working order to avoid problems associated with lack of maintenance and part failures. Gas dryers should be occasionally inspected by a professional to ensure that the gas line and connection are intact and free of leaks.

    “Line of Duty” Author: Fire Marshal Alan Perkins, CFPS, Washington Township Fire Department, Dublin, Ohio. For more information, contact: Leslie Dybiec, Public Information Officer Phone: (614) 652-3928 Fax: (614) 766-2507 or ldybiec@wtwp.com.

    LiveSafe Foundation is an Ohio based non-profit organization (501c3), and leading grassroots movement, devoted to making fire safety education, awareness initiatives and life saving tools available on a broad basis to communities, campuses, and institutions in an effort to reduce national fire fatalities and fire losses. LiveSafe aims to help finance fire safety education where means are otherwise unavailable.  LiveSafe is developing and sponsoring programs to help groups find the resources needed to advance individual and community fire safety.

    Tags: , , , , , , ,
    Posted in Line of Duty | No Comments »