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: Animals, Candle Safety, Dogs, Fire Hydrants, fire safety, Pet Emergency Management, Pets, Poison Control Center, Weather Tips
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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):
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: candles, Cincinnati Pig Marathon, February, fire safety, Gifts, NIFAST, Phoenix Society, smoke alarms, Team RISE, Valentines Day
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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: chimney, dryer lint, dryer vent, fire safety, home fires
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With record-setting low temperatures, furnaces and space heaters are being used to keep homes warm. Before turning up a thermostat or plugging in a space heater, remember to think twice about both safety and energy efficiency.
The National Fire Protection Association states that heating equipment, like space heaters, are the No. 1 cause of home fires during December, January and February and the second-leading cause of home fires year-round. Most accidents involving space heaters are the result of human error – heaters are placed too close to combustible material like drapes and furniture, or they have not been properly maintained.
Don’t end up a statistic. Follow these tips and share them with your friends and family:
- Give space heaters their space. Space heaters pose a higher risk of fire and death than central heating systems. Keep the space heater at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including walls.
- Unplug the heater every time you leave the room and when you go to bed.
- Plug electric-powered space heaters into an outlet with sufficient capacity and never into an extension cord.
- Make sure the plug fits snugly in the outlet, since a loose plug can overheat. If you’re using the space heater in the bathroom, be sure to use a ground-fault circuit interrupter. Remember, electricity and water do not mix.
- Don’t hide the cord under a rug or carpet. This can cause the cord to overheat and start a fire.
- Keep it stable. Don’t put your space heater on plush carpet or other surfaces where the space heater may tip over easily.
- Check the tag. Make sure an independent testing laboratory (Underwriters Laboratories) has approved your new space heater.
To conserve energy, try to keep your thermostat at 68 degrees or lower. Space heaters should be on timers when you’re at home. Use programmable thermostats to lower temperatures automatically when you’re not at home, leave drapes or curtains open to take advantage of solar heat, and throw an extra blanket on the bed rather than turn up the heat. As a rule of thumb, heating and cooling are responsible for 40 percent of energy use in the home. Stay safe and warm, but conserve where you can.
For more information about NFPA, please visit their website at www.NFPA.org.
LiveSafe Foundation is a 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: cold temperatures, energy, home fires, nfpa, space heaters, thermostat
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Can you hear me now?
I am guessing you’ve heard those words a few times while talking on a cellphone. Typically it happens when you’re in one of those deadzones asking the other person on the line, “Can you Hear me now?” You might walk outside a building or move around just to catch that magical spot where both parties have a clear line of communication. My most recent experience was on a remote island in Northern Ontario and our phone was hit by a big storm - the phone would go in and out – I paced the room with the phone tightly pressed to my ear, shoulders hunched, saying “Can you Hear me now?”
In blogging, I have found it to be a similar experience, never fully convinced if we are authentically finding and sustaining a sense of online community with each other. It takes work to maintain links and genuinely think of others, so in order to keep a pulse on our readership, we follow our statistics closely. Since the inception of launching the Live-Safe.org blog site, we have had over 600 visitors to the site, with an increasing percentage of new visitors and time spent on the site. We suspect that readership tapers off at this time of year, so we are working on establishing targets for 2010. In this era of social connectivity, finding ways to communicate solutions often and with many different people and businesses is now a way of life – we are constantly emailing, texting, twittering, facebooking and now blogging. The real question is, are we truly engaged and how do we sustain it?
The LiveSafe blog aspires to be a place where we can share some of what we have learned from our industry experts, as well as a place for us to bring our visitors tools and resources. We also want to allow you to bring your questions, thoughts and concerns to our blog with the opportunity to bring you solutions.
We thank those who are spreading the word about the LiveSafe blog and to those providing us with news articles and information. Please remember the LiveSafe blog is intended to be interactive. It’s wonderful to get good feedback, but we also feel corrections are equally important. We welcome you to continue to join the conversation in 2010.
Can You Hear Me Now?
What’s on your mind?
Submit your own original writing for the LiveSafe community to read.
Share an upcoming event or interesting website.
Your opinions matter about our topics, featured products, our blog and more.
Report the news…
We want to hear from you!
Email us at: info@live-safe.org.
Images provided by Google.
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: blogging, cellphone, facebook, news, ontario, texting, twitter
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We invite you to join us in our mission through supporting the 6th annual Christine’s Christmas Concert to be held on Saturday December 5th, 2009 at 7pm Dublin Jerome High School Theatre. The concert is a unique holiday concert, embraced by the Dublin community held in memory of Christine Wilson who died tragically along with four of her friends in a fire near The Ohio State University campus just six years ago.
Christine Wilson
The concert begins at 7:00pm and is emceed by Channel 10’s Chuck Strickler, features Mark King, pianist with reception and recipient of the Columbus Rotary’s prestigious 2009 ‘Service Above Self Award’. He is joined by the magnificent solo artists Denise Alexander and Carolyn King. Special guest performers include Nathan Kufchak, cello, Bradley Sowash, bass, and the Columbus Children’s Choir.
Dr. Mark King and Family
The performance is followed by a fun and friendly reception hosted at the prestigious Muirfield Village Golf Club. The night is sure to be a joy with heavy hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, and a buffet of tempting desserts. In addition, guests can finish off their holiday shopping by participating in the large silent auction featuring a variety of items ranging from artwork to landscaping packages, sports memorabilia to spa certificates. All proceeds will benefit the Center for Child and Family Advocacy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Where: Concert Dublin Jerome High School, 8300 Hyland-Croy Road, Dublin
Reception Following Concert: Muifield Village Golf Club, 5750 Memorial Drive, Dublin
Reservations: $50/adult $20/student
For more information on the concert or to purchase tickets, call 614-355-0810 or visit www.nationwidechildrens.org. To learn more about the Christine Wilson Foundation, visit:
Visit www.NationwideChildrens.org/ChristinesChristmas or www.christinewilsonfoundation.org or contact: Rachel Whisner, Nationwide Children’s Hospital Foundation 700 Children’s Drive Columbus, OH 43205 614.355.0820 (tel) 614.355.0872 (fax) Rachel.Whisner@NationwideChildrens.orgPosted in Fire Protection | No Comments »
Thanksgiving Day Fire Safety Tips from Guest Blogger, Terry Flanagan, Director of Safety and Education, NIFAST, National Institute for Fire and Safety Training:
![thanksgiving-turkey[1]](http://www.live-safe.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/thanksgiving-turkey1.jpg "Give Thanks")
- Cook Smart, Don’t Get Burned!
Let’s talk Turkey!
Ahh Thanksgiving!
The beginning of the holiday season: decorations, family gatherings…a time memories are made. My favorite memories are football in the backyard , watching the games on TV , and most importantly, a time of giving thanks for all we have been blessed with, and FOOD, lots of food! I can almost smell the wonderful scents from a turkey dinner with all the trimmings.
Most people know that thanksgiving is the heaviest travel day of the year, but did you know that more kitchen fires occur on Thanksgiving than any other day of the year? Nothing can destroy the holiday season more than a tragic fire or burn injuries.
There are many hazards that come with the holiday season. Let’s concentrate on Thanksgiving first. Typically, on Thanksgiving day, every cooking appliance is generally in use. All the burners, the microwave, toaster oven, the stove and maybe even a deep fat turkey fryer! Here are some tips to prevent a tragic occurrence on Thanksgiving.
- Make sure you have a kid free zone in the kitchen. This should be at least three feet around the stove.
- Keep all combustibles away from the stove, including potholders, towels and other flammables.
- Do not wear loose fitting clothing if you are cooking.
- Use extreme caution when basting a turkey.
- Follow cooking and appliance instructions.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for helpers. A good idea is to keep two people in the kitchen at all times.
- Let any thing cooked in the microwave stand for one minute to prevent steam burns
- Turn each burner and then stove off when the cooking is done
- Have a class B or K rated extinguisher or baking soda nearby
If you are using a turkey fryer:
- Follow the directions
- If the fryer is for outdoor use do not use it inside or in the garage.
- Slowly lower the turkey into the grease.
- If it is raining or snowing be aware as this can cause the oil to splatter
- Have a Class B or K rated fire extinguisher or baking soda nearby
- Do not overfill the fryer with oil
If a fire occurs:
- Do not panic
- Evacuate everyone
- Call the Fire Department
- If you attempt to extinguish the fire DO NOT reach over the burned area even if you have extinguished it as it could reignite.
Finally, I would like to say thanks. Thanks to the emergency response forces and military stationed far away from home that will have to work to protect the rest of us while we enjoy Thanksgiving with our families and loved ones. You are in our thoughts. THANK YOU
About Terry Flanagan: 
Terry is the Director of Safety and Education at NIFAST – National Institute for Fire and Safety Training. NIFAST, National Institute of Fire and Safety training, is a membership based organization developed to train and certify people in various areas of Fire and Safety. Programs are in place for home inspectors, home occupants, college students and off-campus housing environments as well as products for Fire Safety. Terry is a nationally registered Fire Instructor.
Photo: Courtesy of Google Images
Tags: Cooking, fire safety, NIFAST, Thanksgiving, Turkey Fryer
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What an incredibly busy Autumn! For most of us, the start of the Fall season generally marks the beginning of starting something new. And with the season almost behind us, it’s important to reflect on what has been accomplished.
I’ve climbed a 100ft. Sutphen Fire Truck Aerial Ladder, repelled a fire tower, received training and certification in AHA cardio-pulmonary resuscitation and First Aid, greeted Med Flight Helicopter & Pilots, extricated an SUV in conjunction with providing emergency medical treatment practice, participated in hands-on fire extinguisher training using a small controlled fire, and experienced a Live Burn, all along with the many joys of being a mom running a carpool from school to afterschool activities like Football and Hockey practice.
Needless to say my hectic fall schedule resulted in an incredible experience with some very special people in the Washington Township Fire Department Citizens Fire Academy (CFA). It was truly an amazing experience to spend every Wednesday night for ten weeks learning and experiencing a behind the scenes study of our local fire department. The course was taught by veteran fire fighters and fire safety professionals designed for adults interested in learning about the tools, processes, procedures, risks, and rewards of serving in the fire service. Considering the value of my experience (priceless), it was hard to imagine that the course was at no cost – FREE. I am grateful to Chief Alan Woo, Fire Marshal Alan Perkins, Training Manager James Ross, Administrative Manager Anna Worman and Department Coordinator Sharon Smith, for donating their time, knowledge, leadership and resources to make it such an enriching experience.
People probably assumed I took the course because of my fire background, which certainly played a large role, but surprisingly deciding to take this course started with a little book I purchased back in November, 2008. While enjoying coffee at a local Starbucks with my son, Kyle, I decided to buy myself (and several friends) a book named “5”. The book simply asks, “Where will you be five years from today?” The purpose of the book is to fire-up your creative juices and inspire you to map out your dreams. As an avid learner and curious person, this book sparked a fire in me to chart a course for my life over the next five years. I had begun to look for new opportunities that would help me “grow” through life, rather than just “go” through life. Perhaps it’s a combination of the book and turning 40, but more than anything, participating in the Citizens Fire Academy was about learning something new, having an adventure and breaking from my usual routine. As a CFA graduate, I am proud to add this experience to my life’s “Bucket List”.
I made some terrific new relationships that will hopefully result in a lifetime of friendships. 
(Here’s a photo of me, along with my fellow CFA classmates, during the All-day Live Burn at Washington Township Fire Tower.)
So I ask you – where will you be in 5 years…260 weeks…1,825 days…2,333,000 minutes? What will you do with that time? Let friends inspire you. Step outside your comfort zone and dream of climbing new mountains, both physically and professionally. Sign up for something new.
I hope my journey eventually takes me to as far as Mount Everest or Kilimanjaro, but in the meantime; perhaps you’ll join me as a CFA alumni, if so, please call Washington Township Fire Department at #614.652.3920 to learn more about the program coming again in August, 2010.
Every day matters. What’s on your Bucket List? Where will you be in 5 years…the skies the limit!
The skies the limit! Dream Big.
I would love to hear back from you about what’s on your bucket list, so if you have a personal experience that you would like to share or suggest, please email me directly at Jill@live-safe.org.
Jill is the Founder of The Live Safe Foundation, a 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. Live Safe aims to help finance fire safety education where means are otherwise unavailable. Live Safe is developing and sponsoring programs to help groups find the resources needed to advance individual and community fire safety.
Tags: bucket list, Citizen, Fire Academy, Washington Township Fire Department
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We would like to think that our homes, apartments, dormitories and similar residential occupancies are some of the safest places to be at when inside a building. Or at least that is what is expected. People want to feel safe when they are sleeping, eating, or simply relaxing on the couch watching television. There are many attributes found around a house or similar residential occupancies that people take for granted.
In the US the two primary Building Codes that regulate construction are the International Building Code (IBC) and the International Residential Code (IRC). The IRC regulates One-and-Two-Family Dwellings. All other residential type occupancies are regulated by the IBC. Some states and local jurisdictions may have different codes adopted, so it’s always wise to check with the local jurisdictions.
Many of the features within a dwelling can be traced back to the IRC code or an older code that was effective at the time of construction. These features were intended to keep us safe and alert us when fires start. Although there are many, a few of the key requirements will be discussed.
One of the most important requirements found the in the codes has to do with windows and/or doors found in sleeping rooms (bedrooms). IRC R310 and IBC 1026 include requirements for emergency Escape and Rescue openings. Sleeping rooms in residential occupancies are required to have emergency and rescue openings that open directly to public way or a yard that opens to public way. These openings have minimum size requirements.
The emergency escape and rescue opening required in sleeping rooms is important. In the event of an emergency, a person inside the dwelling must be able to evacuate the premises. The openings are critical for someone to evacuate from the inside if another exit route is not available. Another reason for the openings from the sleeping rooms is for rescue personnel to be able to get inside the dwelling. The size requirements are specific based on testing and statistical information to allow the entrance of fire department personnel, with necessary equipment strapped to their backs. Without these openings, rescue would be difficult and time-consuming with possibility of tragedy if not made available.
Another item that is commonly encountered in dwellings is addressed in Section R309 of the IRC. Private garages are required to be separated from the living spaces of the dwelling by Gypsum Board that lines the walls and ceiling of the garage. The common door between the garage and the dwelling must meet specific requirements, such as the ability to be self-closing. These items are necessary to protect the living space from a fire that may begin in the garage. The garage, most of the time, is not occupied. If a fire starts in the garage, it can and will spread very easily into the main parts of the house. The construction requirements will maintain the fire within the garage space for a portion of time, allowing the residents to escape.
Smoke alarms are found (should be) in every home. These alarms are required to be located at specific locations throughout the dwelling (IRC Section R313). Sleeping rooms and the spaces directly outside a sleeping room are required to have smoke alarms (detectors). Each level of a multistory home is also required to have a smoke detector. These are required to alert occupants of a fire. It is necessary to place these in sleeping rooms to wake those that may be asleep and not aware of an emergency.
Another item that is found in many, but not all, dwellings that has specific life safety requirements in the codes is a staircase. Many homes are two-stories or more and provide decorative staircases. These staircases are provided not only to access the upstairs, but to allow the occupants to travel downstairs without creating a hazard, especially in the event of an emergency. Sections R311 in the IRC and 1009 in the IBC provide for the requirements for stairway construction.
When it comes to the width of a stairway, headroom, treads, and risers, the size of a stairway is limited. These size requirements are provided so that a tripping hazard is not created when a staircase is built. If someone needs to run down the stairs in an emergency, this path needs to be safe. If the stair size is unconventional, a person may fall down the stairs instead of exit the house safely.
Other aspects of a staircase that are addressed in the codes are the bottom landing, the handrail, and the guard. A landing is required at the bottom of the staircase. The landing provides an area for someone to change direction and remain balanced and oriented while shifting travel direction. Handrails are required continuously on at least one side of residential stairways. The handrail serves as a guide. A guardrail is required as well. Guards may have openings, but only as large enough so that a 4.375-inch diameter sphere cannot pass through. This opening size requirement is to keep young children from falling through. A guardrail though keeps both children and adults from falling over the edge of a staircase.
The items discussed above are only a sample of the requirements found in the Building Codes. There are many other requirements in the Building, Plumbing, Mechanical, and Electrical Codes related to Fire and Life Safety. Some requirements may seem insignificant at first, but when it comes to keeping people safe, nothing else matters.
Authors:
Annette Bevier, E.I.T., C.P.E., is a Plan Check Engineer at NAFFA International, Inc.
Imad Naffa, P.E., is the President and Senior Engineer at NAFFA International, Inc.
For more information about NAFFA and for additional code resources and links, visit www.NAFFAinc.com
For building and fire code related questions, visit the “Building Code Discussions Group” (BCDG) by NAFFA at: http://bcodes.infopop.cc/eve
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Fires consumes millions of dollars of property each year in the United States. These fires kill more than 5,000 people with 1,100 of them being children. Countless numbers, including firefighters, are injured in fires and struggle with painful burn injuries. The saddest fact of all is that it can be prevented by installing early warning devices (such as smoke detectors) and automatic fire suppression systems.
Fire Protection industry supporters (OSU Medical Center Burn Center and Central Ohio Chapter of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers), have come together to educate the public as to the extensive damage fire causes and how they can be a part of the solution to the problem by requiring properly designed automatic fire suppression systems not only where they work, but where they live, play, shop, go to school and worship. Together we are making things happen!
Through the support of the SFPE COC community, The Ohio State University Medical Center’s Burn Center received a major boost through their annual charity golf event on Monday, October 5th, 2009 at The Lakes Golf and Country Club. Since 1998 (traditionally kicked off during Fire Prevention Week) the Society of Fire Protection Engineers and its members have generously contributed $212,500 to the Burn Center at Ohio State University Medical Center. These funds have allowed the Ohio State Burn Center to continue to be actively involved in providing education on burn prevention and fire safety both to the community and the students on campus, as well as helping patients obtain special items or assistance such as compression garments which are not covered under insurance. The fund also provides direct support and assistance to patients, their families and advanced education to burn care nurses.
As a member of the SFPE planning Board, Live Safe Foundation Founder, Jill Marcinick, volunteered and assisted in event planning for the 20th Annual SFPE/OSU Burn Center Golf Outing. The event featured over 120 participants, all supporting the OSU Burn Center. Participants enjoyed a beautiful Autumn day on the golf course along with OSU Alumni President and 2 time Heisman Trophy Winner Archie Griffin who participated in the event. Archie Griffin attended the event to help support the cause and raise awareness for the OSU Burn Center.
SFPE Golf participant & Archie Griffin
Post golf festivities included a terrific Silent Auction, Raffle, Course Games, and a Check Ceremony providing a $20,000 check to Dr. Sidney Miller of the OSU Burn Center. A highlight of the evening was a heartfelt testimony from Guest Keynote Speaker, Firefighter Pat Malone, who shared his story of recovery from a tragic burn incident resulting from a Flashover that occurred last October 31, 2008. He expressed his sincere appreciation for the excellent care and therapy he received from the team of doctors at the OSU Burn Center.
Funds raised from the event are allocated to enhance education and prevention programs, as well as patient care.
Education:
- Community Outreach provides Burn and Fire Prevention programs at Fire Stations and schools.
- On-Campus Community Outreach activities provide education and literature to students as they arrive or return to campus.
- Ohio State’s Burn Center also participates in Burn Prevention Week, Fire Prevention Week and Homecoming activities to increase awareness of fire safety and prevention on-campus.
- Provider Education is conducted through programs such as ABLS education to burn care givers, the Fire Fighter for a Day program, as well as, providing education to staff through conferences and seminars.
Patient Care:
- Burn Discharge Dressing Kits have been provided to patients being discharged from care and are able to maintain care for their wounds at home.
- Buckeye Burn Support Group provides professional support and guidance to burn survivors and their families to help survivors resume functional, productive lives.
- Special items such as pressure garments, wigs, and equipment are purchased for patients who are otherwise unable to obtain these items.
- Additional assistance is provided to help patients with special needs in obtaining housing and clothing.
Fire sprinklers and extinguishers can make a difference, and you can too. Let’s fight this burning issue together!
For more information contact SFPE Member: Jill Marcinick, Founder of Live Safe. (If you have additional questions regarding Ohio State’s Burn Center education and programs, please contact Chris Casavant (OSU Burn Program Manager) at (614) 336-8374.)
Tags: Archie Griffin, Burn Center, Fire Prevention Week, Golf Outing
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