| Courtesy of the Pelham Fire Department
Fall Fire Safety Tips
Summer has past and Fall is here, bringing cooler weather
and falling leaves.
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Never park your car or truck over a pile of leaves.
The heat from the vehicle's catalytic converter or exhaust system can ignite
the leaves below. The resulting fire could destroy your vehicle.
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Check all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure
they work, and change the batteries.
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Have heating appliances serviced and chimney flues examined
for defects.
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Have fireplaces and fireplace dampers checked.
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Fireplaces should be equipped with an appropriate screen or
glass enclosure to prevent sparks from flying out.
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Wood burning stoves should be examined and the flue and
chimney checked for creosote buildup.
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Use only seasoned woods, and avoid soft woods like Pine,
etc.
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Never use a flammable liquid to start a fireplace.
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Never overload the hearth with wood or artificial logs, the
resulting fire may be too large for the unit.
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Put all ashes outdoors and away from the house in a metal
container.
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Have a useable fire extinguisher available
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IT IS ILLEGAL AND DANGEROUS TO BURN LEAVES AND BRUSH
Spring Fire Safety Tips
Spring is here once again. here are some easy fire
safety tips that will help ensure a fire free entrance to this summer:
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Smoke detector batteries should be checked, and replaced if
necessary.
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Smoke detector units should be cleared of dust.
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Fire extinguishers should be checked, and recharged if
necessary.
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Electric wiring should be checked for damage, and replaced
if necessary.
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Electric outlets and extension cords should not be
overloaded.
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Air Conditioning units and electrical cords should be
checked.
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Barbeque Gas grills (including gas hoses) and propane tanks
should be inspected prior to use.
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Never use open flame devices to strip paint. This is
very dangerous and is illegal.
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Never burn yard waste or trash. This is very dangerous
and is illegal.
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Windows should be checked to make sure they open and close
properly, in case they are needed as exits.
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Review your family's Fire Escape Plan.
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Fuels for lawn and garden equipment, etc. should be stored
in an approved container only.
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Pesticides and chemicals should be stored in an approved
container and away from children.
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Swimming pool chemicals should be stored according to
manufacturer guidelines.
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Oil based paints and solvents should be stored in a metal
cabinet
BBQ Grill Fire Safety Tips
The outdoor cookout season is in full swing now that summer is
upon us. Listed here are a few helpful hints in making your outdoor
barbeque a fire safe event.
Propane Gas Grills
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Before each use, check hoses for signs of wear and tear, and
that the connection to the tank is tight.
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Remove excess grease buildup from the unit, to prevent flare
ups.
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Periodically check the inside gas tubes for the buildup of
spider webs that can cause blockage, causing gas to backflow into the
control valves, where it could potentially ignite.
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An orange flame is in an indication that there is an
obstruction in the gas tubes that lead to the burners. Flame should be
blue in color.
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When igniting the grille, make sure the lid or cover is in
the open position.
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Never leave the unit unattended while cooking, and keep
children at a safe distance.
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Always shut the tank off after each use.
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If the unit catches fire, do not attempt to extinguish it,
especially if propane is burning freely. CALL THE FIRE DEPT.
Propane will reignite with explosive force.
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Proper location and placement of the unit is very important.
Keep the unit away from the sides or back of your home, as well as open
windows. If fire occurs, it will spread to the building.
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Use common sense and read the manufacturers directions.
Charcoal Grills
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Careful use of charcoal starter fluid is very important.
Follow the direction on the can and never apply additional fluid once the
fire has been ignited.
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The use of an electric starter or paper is an alternate
method, and pre-treated charcoal should also be used.
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Place all ashes in metal cans.
Questions?
Call the Pelham Fire Department at 914-738-2601
(non-emergency)
To Report a Fire or Other Emergency
DIAL 911 OR 914-738-2600
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