H O L I D AY S A F E T Y & F I R E S By Connie Hogue, Vice President of Human Resources & Safety Do you worry about fires in your home during the holiday season? You are not alone. In the winter months, there is an increase of unintentional deaths as the result of a home fire. Fires can start quickly and spread faster than most people realize. They can occur at any time, in the blink of an eye – whether you are baking festive Connie Hogue cookies, cooking your favorite meals, decorating your house with twinkling lights or burning candles.
There are five extinguishers that safely put out five distinct types of fires: 1. Class A fire extinguishers: safe to use on fires that are burning paper and wood 2. Class B fire extinguishers: safe to use on flammable liquids like grease, gasoline and oil 3. Class C fire extinguishers: safe to use on electrical fires 4. Class D fire extinguishers: safe to use on metals such as magnesium and titanium 5. Class K fire extinguishers: safe to use on fires that start in the kitchen when using grease, cooking fat and oil
FIRE PREVENTION TACTICS
The good news is you have the capability to take preventative measures to stop fires from starting in the first place. • • • • •
Keep your kitchen tools away from hot stovetops. Water real Christmas trees daily. A dry tree creates a higher fire risk and causes an unwanted mess. Place candles and menorah's on a non-flammable surface. Remove your festive stockings from your fireplace before you light it. If you leave them hanging, sparks can fly and catch the stockings on fire. Eliminate clutter in your home. Home décor, books, clothing, boxes and other knickknacks will add fuel to a fire causing flames to spread quicker if a fire occurs.
In the case a fire starts in your home, follow this simple protocol: ACT. • • •
If a fire occurs, act fast. Do not try to save your valuables, photos, gifts or important documents. Find an exit close to you that is clear from fire debris, smoke and burning ash. Once you are safely outdoors, several feet away from the fire, call 9-1-1 then make sure everyone is accounted for.
Take into account these additional fire safety tips: •
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Understand Chemical Safety – Store your chemicals in a safe area in your home depending on what the hazard warning labels state on the back of the chemical container. Use Fire Extinguishers – It is vital that you have the proper fire extinguisher in designated spots throughout your home. They should be in good condition, and you should consider conducting monthly inspections.
Always remember – all your possessions and other assets can be replaced; yourself, your family and friends cannot.
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
It is important that you always have a fire extinguisher nearby. You must use the correct one depending on the situation. If you use the wrong type, it can cause the fire to become more dangerous and destructive. myenergycoop.com
Assess the situation Choose the best action Take action
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