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COMMUNITY
INFORMATION |
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The following public
service announcements are provided to you by the Marysville
Division of Fire. For further information please contact
the Marysville Division of Fire, 209 South Main Street,
Marysville, OH 43040, (937) 642-2065. |
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October 20, 2009 |
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Workplace Fire
Safety |
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There are approximately
6,000 office fires in the United States each year. The
three major causes of fires in the workplace are arson,
smoking/open flames, and wiring/appliances.
Arson
Pay close attention to security measures. Keep doors
and windows locked after business hours. Keep areas around
the building - especially alleys and loading docks - well lit
and clear of combustibles. Pay attention to housekeeping
within the building.
Smoking Materials
In areas where smoking is allowed, use large, non-tip
ashtrays and make sure everything in them is cold before they
are emptied. Do your part to restrict smoking to
designated areas outside of the building.
Wiring & Appliances
Designate an employee to turn off or unplug all appliances -
including coffee makers at the end of each weekday. Do not
overload outlets, and make sure to replace any broken or cracked
electrical cords.
Be familiar with and
practice your fire response plans:
Become familiar with
your facility's fire and life safety systems. Know
which of the following your building has, as well as their
location and use: manual pull alarms, fire extinguishers,
smoke detectors, fire alarm monitoring service, exit doors &
stairwells, sprinklers, fire doors, etc.
Common fire and life
safety hazards to watch for in the workplace: missing or
broken fire safety equipment, accumulated trash, open fire
doors, burned out exit lights, blocked stairways/hallways/exits.
Fire extinguishers.
Fire Code requirements specify the size, number and location of
fire extinguishers within your facility. These
requirements help establish a protection level appropriate for
the hazard class of your building. Make sure you know the
types, sizes and maintenance requirements of your extinguishers,
as well as the basics of extinguisher operation.
Have a fire emergency
plan. This plan should be in writing, and easily
available to all employees. This includes those who work
weekends and off-shifts. The plan should be kept current
through periodic updating.
When a fire happens:
Treat every alarm as
though it is a real emergency, even if the initial source is
unknown. If the alarm sounds, or a fire is suspected,
call the Fire Department immediately. After calling the
Fire Department, if you determine that there is no fire, but
rather a malfunction of your equipment or a false alarm, call
911 and relay this information. Never wait to investigate
the situation before notifying the Fire Department. Any
delay will allow a fire to grow and further endanger the
building occupants and property.
DO NOT silence
the alarm until given permission to do so by Fire Department
personnel or by the emergency operator. DO NOT
reset the alarm until the Fire Department arrives and has
investigated the source of the alarm. All fire alarms are
to be investigated by the Fire Department.
Call your emergency
number - 9●1●1. It's important for employees calling
911 to be able to give the following information: nature
of the problem, location, address, nearest cross street, any
specifics known. The caller should not hang up until told
to do so by the emergency operator.
Close door when
exiting. By closing doors, you help limit the spread
of smoke and fire throughout the building. Doors should be
closed by employees as they leave, and by floor wardens assigned
to check the floor during an alarm.
Never use elevators
during a fire emergency. The reason is three fold:
1) elevators often fail during a fire, trapping occupants; 2)
elevator shafts may fill with smoke; and 3) the elevator needs
to be available for the use of arriving firefighters.
Occupants must exit by way of stairwells only.
Establish an employee
meeting place. It is important to establish an
employee meeting place so that all employees can be accounted
for after a building evacuation. The meeting place needs
to be away from the building, both so that the area is clear for
arriving Fire Department personnel and also so that occupants
are away from any glass or debris that may fall from the
building.
If unable to leave
the building, create an area of refuge:
Seal the room.
Use wet cloths to stuff around cracks in doors and seal
up vents to protect against smoke.
Do not break
windows. Flames and smoke can come back in from
outside. If you need air, open the window a crack.
Stay low under
smoke. The freshest air is near the floor.
Keep a wet cloth over your nose and mouth, breathe through your
nose only.
Signal for help.
Use the telephone, or hang something out the window. |
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October 12, 2009 |
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Fire Prevention
Month - Safety in Places of Public Assembly |
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Many of our nation's "fire
tragedies" have brought painful lessons, bringing about changes
in our nation's fire code and (hopefully) fire safety practices.
Fire Prevention week (month) is held every year during the
anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. More recent
and even more tragic fires (in number of human lives lost)
include the Iroquois Theatre of 1903 - 571 dead, Cocoanut Grove
Nightclub fire of 1942 - 492 dead, Southgate Kentucky Nightclub
fire of 1977 - 164 dead, and the Station Nightclub fire of 2003
- 100 dead.
What do all of these more
recent fires have in common? They occurred in places of
public assembly. Public assembly occupancies incorporate
(but are not exclusive to) business, religious, school, civic,
etc. facilities where people gather. Lax fire-safety
practices anywhere, but especially in public assembly
occupancies, can have disastrous consequences. Take the
"Station Nightclub" fire for example.
Late on the evening of
February 20, 2003 462 people gathered in a nightclub in Rhode
Island to listen to a band. The facility was overcrowded,
exits were poorly marked, there was no sprinkler system, and
pyrotechnics were used by the band, "Great White", which in-turn
ignited flammable sound insulation in the walls and ceiling
around the stage. This created a flash fire that fully
engulfed the nightclub in 5 minutes. 132 escaped
uninjured, 230 were injured, and 100 died, many of the dead
being crushed in the ensuing panic. |
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Sadly the causes of this
tragedy were similar to those noted before, overcrowding,
flammable decorative material, no sprinkler system, and multiple
other common-sense fire code violations. Speaking of
"common sense", are you aware of your environment when entering
a restaurant, movie theatre, hotel, or other place frequented by
groups of people? This is also the time of year we come
across unsafe and sometimes illegal practices that utilize
flammable decorative material, improper/unsafe utilization of
candles, blocked/compromised exits, etc. (straw, live
trees/decorative material, impromptu/poorly planned "haunted
housed", etc.).
Sometimes people fail to
understand the implications of poor fire safety practices,
particularly in places of public assembly. Your greatest
aid to survival is your state of awareness and your ability to
note your surroundings, as well as ability to take proper action
if the need arises. The following items are important to
remember, and could save your life. |
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Station
Nightclub fire - 40seconds after ignition |
Before you enter...
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Take a good look.
Does the building appear to be in a condition that makes you
feel comfortable? Is the main entrance wide and opens
outward to allow easy exits? Is the outside area clear
of materials stored against the building or blocking exits?
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Have a
communication plan. Identify a relative or friend
to contact in case of emergency and you are separated from
family or friends.
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Plan a meeting
place. Pick a meeting place outside to meet family
or friends with whom you are attending the function.
If there is an emergency, be sure to meet them there.
When you enter...
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Locate exits
immediately. When you enter a building you should
look for all available exits. Some exits may be in
front and some in back of you. Be prepared to use your
closest exit. You may not be able to use the main
exit.
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Check for clear
exit paths. Make sure aisles are wide enough and
not obstructed by chairs or furniture. Check to make
sure your exit door is not blocked or chained. If
there are not at least two exits or exit paths are blocked,
report the violation to management and leave the building if
it is not immediately addressed. Call the local fire
marshal to register a complaint.
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Do you feel safe?
Does the building appear to be overcrowded? Are there
fire sources such as candles burning, cigarettes or cigars
burning, pyrotechnics, or other heat sources that may make
you feel unsafe? Are there safety systems in place
such as alternative exits, sprinklers, and smoke alarms?
Ask the management for clarification on your concerns.
If you do not feel safe in the building, leave immediately.
During an emergency...
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React immediately.
If an alarm sounds, you see smoke or fire, or other unusual
disturbance immediately exit the building in an orderly
fashion.
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Get out, stay out!
Once you have escaped, stay out. Under no
circumstances should you ever go back into a burning
building. Let trained firefighters conduct rescue
operations.
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October 5, 2009 |
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National Fire
Prevention Week |
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National Fire Prevention
Week is October 4th thru October 10th. This year the theme
is "Stay Fire Smart! Don't Get Burned," focusing on
increasing burn awareness and prevention. We have always
used the entire month of October, proclaiming it Fire Prevention
Month. For the next four weeks we will print an
educational press release, focusing on the Fire Prevention Week
theme. First and foremost, all homes should have
working smoke alarms. When it comes to cooking
fires, remember: Cooking equipment, most often a range or
stovetop, is the leading cause of reported home fires and home
fire injuries in the United States. Fires can be
prevented. A few easy steps can save your life!
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When cooking, stay in
the kitchen and keep an eye on the stove.
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Wear short or
tight-fitting sleeves when cooking.
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Keep towels, pot
holders, curtains, and paper products away from the stove.
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Keep the stove and
oven clean to prevent grease build-up.
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If a cooking fire
starts, smother it with a pot lid. Never throw water
on a grease fire.
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Heat oil slowly to
avoid splattering. Be extra careful when frying foods.
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When cooking in a
microwave, do not use metal objects or aluminum foil (they
could start a fire).
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If a fire starts in
the microwave, keep the door closed.
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Check the kitchen
before you go to bed or leave your house to be sure all
appliances are turned off.
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Get a fire
extinguisher and learn how to use it.
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Never use the stove or
oven to heat your home.
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Make a fire escape
plan and practice it monthly.
Cooking Fire Facts
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Cooking is the leading
cause of home fires in the United States.
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Cooking is the leading
cause of home fire injuries.
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Unattended cooking is
the leading cause of cooking fires.
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September 24, 2009 |
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Open Flames and
Decorative Material in Businesses and Places of Public Assembly |
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Every year at this time we
are confronted with serious fire safety issues, particularly in the
use of open flames and the decorative material. Fall and
the coming events of Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas
challenges us to take responsibility for our own (and others)
safety. Business owners and members of the
community sometimes unknowingly erect unsafe displays and
decorations. It is our goal, and part of a continuing
effort, to educate the public in these and other areas of fire
safety. Many of the issues addressed below are found in
the Ohio Fire Code (section noted in parenthesis).
We are always available to assist those who may have questions
regarding the fire code and related safety issues.
The following is provided
in the interest of public safety:
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It is unlawful to
utilize or allow to be utilized, any open flame, burning
candle or candles in connection with any public meeting or
gathering or similar purpose in assembly or educational
occupancies without first obtaining a permit (308.3).
Candles are not permitted in areas where occupants stand, or
in an aisle or exit (308.3.4d). This includes
auditorium aisles, entrances to businesses/places of
assembly, etc. With the approval of the local fire
official, and when adequate safeguards have been taken,
participants in religious ceremonies are allowed to carry
hand-held candles. Hand-held candles are not to be
passed from one person to another while lighted
(308).
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The use of combustible
decorative material in a manner, which is inconsistent with
the intent of the Ohio Fire Code, is a serious problem.
All decorative materials must be either noncombustible or
flame-resistant. No decorations or other objects shall
be placed to obstruct exits, access thereto, egress
there from, or visibility thereof (806).
In applicable businesses and occupancies, curtains,
draperies, hangings and other decorative materials suspended
from walls or ceilings shall be flame-resistant (805).
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There is a particular problem with the use of decorative
material (such as straw, hay, corn shocks, and live
Christmas trees) during this time of year. Such
material should never be placed inside a building or against
the side of a building (806). Each year we are called to, or
discover a business in which these types of materials are
placed against a building, and often next to an
entrances/exit. This is a particularly dangerous
practice, with specific restrictions (315). Carelessly discarded smoking materials could
very well lead to ignition and subsequent destruction of
property, including the resultant fire blocking the exit of
people within the building.
Our "perspective" is based on professional
experience as well as tragic historical events, many of which
fostered these and other sections of our nation's fire codes.
Not only are many of these issues common sense, they are also
the law. Let us work together to protect our community and
increase general fire safety awareness, particularly during the
upcoming holiday season. |
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March 23, 2009 |
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Ohio's Severe
Weather Awareness Week is March 22-28
Statewide Tornado Drill - Wednesday, March 25 |
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The month of April is
right around the corner. And with that, tornado season in
Ohio is soon to begin. April through July are the peak
months that tornadoes can occur in Ohio. It is important
that everyone knows where to go and what to do if they hear the
warning sirens sound.
Marysville and Union
County will participate in a statewide tornado drill on
Wednesday, March 25 at 9:50am. Schools, businesses and
households are encouraged to practice their emergency plans and
tornado drills during this time.
Tornado sirens will be
tested each Wednesday at noon from April through November.
If you believe a siren is not functioning properly please
contact the Marysville Fire Department (for sirens in the City
of Marysville) or the Union County Emergency Management Agency (EMA).
In addition, residents and
businesses in Union County can now register to receive real time
weather notification on their home, business or cell phone in
the event of severe weather. Simply Click Here to register
your phone.
The best defense when
faced with tornado warnings or any severe weather event is
preparedness. Know the weather situation. Have a
disaster plan. Practice the plan. Make a supply kit.
Be prepared.
Know Tornado
Terms
A TORNADO is a violently rotating column of air that
extends from the base of a thunderstorm. A condensation
funnel does not need to reach the ground for a tornado to be
present. A debris cloud beneath a thunderstorm is all that
is needed to confirm the presence of a tornado.
A TORNADO WATCH is
issued by the National Weather Service when conditions are
favorable for the development of tornadoes in and close to the
watch area. Watches are usually issued for four to eight
hours. During the tornado watch, people should review
tornado safety rules and be prepared to move to a place of
safety if threatening weather approaches. Listen to a NOAA
Weather Radio of local TV or radio newscasts for up-to-date
weather information.
A TORNADO WARNING is
issued by the local National Weather Service when a tornado has
been detected by Doppler radar or sighted by storm spotters.
A tornado watch does not have to be in effect for a tornado to
form. If a tornado warning is issued for your area, seek
safe shelter immediately. Tornado warnings are usually
issued for 30 minutes. Continue to listen to your NOAA
Weather Radio or local TV or radio newscasts for up-to-date
weather information.
Tornado Safety
Tips
Whether practicing a tornado drill or sheltering during a
tornado warning, the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness
encourages everyone to DUCK.
D - Go DOWN to the lowest level
U - Get UNDER something
C - COVER your head
K - KEEP in shelter until the storm has passed
Be prepared for severe
weather before a storm watch or warning is issued. Meet
with household members to develop a disaster plan to respond to
all hazards, including tornado watches and warnings.
Conduct regular tornado drills. Know how to turn of the
water, gas and electric at the main switches.
The NOAA Weather Radio has
alerting tools available for people who are hearing impaired.
Some weather radio receivers can be connected to an existing
home security system, similar as a doorbell, smoke detector or
other sensor. For additional information, visit the NWS
NOAA Weather Radio link at
http://www.weather.gov/nwr/special_need.htm.
The safest place to be
during a tornado is a basement. If the building has no
basement or cellar, go to a small, centrally located room on the
lowest level of the building, such as a bathroom or closet or
interior hallway.
If you are in a vehicle,
trailer or mobile home, get out immediately and go to the lowest
floor of a sturdy, nearby building or storm shelter.
Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little or no protection
from tornadoes.
If you are outside with no
shelter, lie in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head
with your hands. Do Not seek shelter under a highway
overpass or bridge. You will be exposed to stronger winds
and flying debris.
For additional information
on tornado safety and severe weather preparedness, go to
http://www.weathersafety.ohio.gov.
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March 18, 2009 |
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Open Burning |
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Open burning in the State
of Ohio is governed by the Ohio EPA. In the City of
Marysville it is also restricted under municipal ordinance 1511.
Open burning is not permitted within the City limits or within a
1-mile radius of the City limits (restricted zone), or within
1,000 feet of a neighbor's inhabited building (outside
restricted zone). Open burning is permitted outside the
restricted zone WITH PROPER NOTIFICATION AND PRIOR APPROVAL.
Approved open burning cannot obscure roadways, railroad tracks,
or airfields and should NEVER be left unattended.
Barbecues, campfires,
ceremonial fires, and occupational fires are permitted within
the restricted zone in accordance with Ohio EPA guidelines and
municipal ordinance 1511. Further guidance on open burning
and local/state requirements can be obtained on the web at
www.epa.state.oh.us/pic/facts/openburn.pdf.
Printed information on local and state burning regulations can
also be obtained at the Marysville Fire Department. It is
especially important during dry weather to be mindful of open
burning laws and safety precautions. Do your part - be
alert, be safe, and be aware of open burning laws. |
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February 27, 2009 |
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New Extrication
Equipment Received in AFG Grant |
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The Marysville Division of
Fire received $38,000 in extrication equipment today. 90%
of this amount ($34,200) was funded thru the Assistance to
Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. This equipment replaces
worn equipment that is over 22 years old. The Holmatro
rescue tools include two power units, spreaders, cutters, rams,
and other equipment to assist firefighters in often difficult
auto and machinery rescues involving patient entrapment.
Besides the obvious need
resulting from age and wear, the new equipment is lighter, more
efficient, and significantly more powerful than equipment
currently in use. The "cutters" alone have a "cutting
force" of 208,000 lbs and the "combi tool" will give us expanded
capabilities in simultaneous and/or more difficult rescues. |
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October 6, 2008 |
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In The Interest of
Public Safety |
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October 5-11 is Fire
Prevention Week. The Marysville Division of Fire considers the
whole month of October (or every month of the year for that
matter) as Fire Prevention Month. National Fire Prevention Week
was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire in 1871
that killed more than 250 people and destroyed more than 17,400
structures.
What most people don’t realize
that on that same day (October 8th, 1871) the most
devastating forest fire in American history (Peshtigo Fire)
consumed Northeast Wisconsin, burning down 16 towns and killing
1,152 people. Everything is relative to our experience as well
as our education (which brings me to my next point).
Most of us (luckily) have not
been involved in a serious fire. Most of us also had a fairly
significant exposure to fire safety training when we were young
children. In 2007, 78% of U.S. fire fatalities occurred in the
home. My question to you is; what have you done lately to better
inform and protect yourself and your family against the threat
of fire? More specifically, do you really have a good
understanding on how to prevent home fires and are you still
recalling the basics (hopefully) of what you learned at an
earlier time? The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
has identified a few of the major causes of fire in the home and
steps that you can take to protect you and your family.
Cooking fires were the #1
cause of home fires and injuries resulting in 480 deaths, 4,690
injuries and over $876 million in direct property damage in
2005. When considering cooking fire safety:
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Stay in the kitchen when
you are frying, grilling, or broiling food.
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Keep anything that can
catch fire-potholders, paper, etc. away from your stovetop.
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Caution! Loose clothing
can dangle onto stove burners and catch fire.
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Always keep an oven mitt
and lid handy to slide over the pan and extinguish the fire.
Electrical fires involved an
estimated 20,900 home fires in 2005, resulting in 500 deaths,
1,100 injuries and over 862 million dollars in property damage.
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Replace cracked and
damaged electrical cords.
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Use extension cords for
temporary wiring only.
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Keep lamps, fixtures, and
light bulbs away from anything that can burn.
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Turn portable space
heaters off when you are not present in the room.
Heating fires are the second
leading cause of home fires. Space heaters were involved in 32%
of home heating fires, but accounted for 73% of the related
deaths in 2005.
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Install and maintain
carbon monoxide alarms.
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Keep all combustible
material at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.
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Maintain heating equipment
and chimneys by having them cleaned/inspected every year.
Smoking materials are the
leading cause of fire deaths in the United States. One out of
every 4 fire deaths for the years 2002-2005 was attributed to
smoking materials.
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If you smoke, smoke
outside.
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Never smoke in a home
where oxygen is used.
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Keep matches and lighters
up high in a locked cabinet, out of the reach of children.
Candle fires account for an
estimated 4% of home fires.
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Keep candles at least 12
inches from anything that can burn
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Use sturdy, safe candle
holders.
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NEVER leave a burning
candle unattended.
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Avoid using candles in
bedrooms.
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Use flashlights for
emergency lighting.
Common sense goes a long ways
towards protecting your family and your property. A proactive
“safety awareness” will often not only prevent fires, but home
accidents from occurring. Too often we are “too busy” to take
the time to do things right. For example; How many times have
you used an object (such as a chair) to reach something when a
ladder should have been used? Safety awareness also entails
routine home maintenance and upkeep. Good housekeeping, routine
inspection and proper maintenance of household appliances
(especially heating appliances) as well as installing (and
monthly checks) of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are key
components of preventative action you can and should take.
It is easy to become lulled
into a false sense of security as house fires always “occur to
someone else”. Just ask someone that has experienced the
devastation of fire. They thought the same. We live in a time
where personal responsibility seems to be a fleeting idea. The
first line of defense begins with you. When the alarm comes in
it’s too late. Take that personal responsibility and take a look
around your home. How many hazards can you identify? To assist
you in this challenge the Marysville Division of Fire has a
“Home Fire Safety Checklist”.
Click Here to access the
checklist or visit the fire station at 209 South Main Street.
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August 22, 2008 |
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Open Burning |
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Open burning in the State
of Ohio is governed by the Ohio EPA. In the City of
Marysville it is also restricted under municipal ordinance 1511.
Open burning is not permitted within the City limits or within a
1-mile radius of the City limits (restricted zone), or within
1,000 feet of a neighbor's inhabited building (outside
restricted zone). Open burning is permitted outside the
restricted zone WITH PROPER NOTIFICATION AND PRIOR APPROVAL.
Approved open burning cannot obscure roadways, railroad tracks,
or airfields and should NEVER be left unattended.
Barbecues, campfires,
ceremonial fires, and occupational fires are permitted within
the restricted zone in accordance with Ohio EPA guidelines and
municipal ordinance 1511. Further guidance on open burning
and local/state requirements can be obtained on the web at
www.epa.state.oh.us/general/openburning.html.
Printed information on local and state burning regulations can
also be obtained at the Marysville Fire Department. It is
especially important during dry weather to be mindful of open
burning laws and safety precautions. Do your part - be
alert, be safe, and be aware of open burning laws. |
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May 13, 2008 |
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Chief Fire Officer
Designation |
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Assistant Chief Jay Riley
of the Marysville Division of Fire recently received CFO (Chief
Fire Officer) designation thru the Center for Public Safety
Excellence/Commission on Fire Accreditation International.
There are currently 578 CFO designees worldwide, only 16 in
Ohio. The Marysville Division of Fire is the only fire
department in Ohio to have 2 Chief Officers earning this
prestigious designation/credentialing.
The CFO designation
program consists of several components encompassing the
professional and personal characteristics profile desired of a
CFO. These components include:
Achieving professional
designation as a CFO acknowledges that an individual has
attained the status recognized by his or her superiors,
subordinates, and colleagues. Many organizations within
commercial, industrial and governmental agencies also recognize
this renowned mark of distinction. Only those meeting
strict qualifications can be designated by the Center for Public
Safety Excellence's program. |
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March 11, 2008 |
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Spring Flooding and
High Water Dangers |
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Springtime in central Ohio
can bring unexpected severe weather. Severe thunderstorms
and tornadoes as well as high water and unexpected flooding
present serious safety concerns. The dangers associated
with high water and flooding are often underestimated.
Flash floods are sudden and usually the result of extremely
heavy rain or melting snow.
The immediate danger from
flash floods is from the strength of the water current as it
surges through an area. The current carries debris and
causes drowning, other related injuries, and property damage.
Slowly developing floods can interrupt power, disable natural
gas supplies, and make roads impassable. People may be
stranded or unable to reach their homes.
In a flash flood, the
primary thing to do is move immediately to high ground.
Because of the speed in which a flash flood may occur, you have
no time to save any possessions, or implement any precautionary
measures. Save your life by moving to high ground without
any hesitation. Do Not attempt to cross a flowing
stream where water is above your knees. Do Not attempt to
drive over a flooded road or street as you can become stranded
or trapped. Vehicles offer little to no protection in
the face of a raging flood.
Be prepared...Have
disaster supplies on hand, develop an emergency communication
plan, and make sure all family members know how to respond in
case of a flood.
During a slow rising type
of flood you should:
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Secure all outdoor
items or store them inside along with valuable household
possessions on upper levels.
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Move vehicles,
machinery, and all livestock to higher ground.
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Check emergency food
and water supplies. Keep these necessities high and
dry.
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Listen to radio and
television announcements and monitor our local Emergency
Alert Radio Station AM 1650 for weather information and
further guidance.
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February 1, 2008 |
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Carbon Monoxide
Poisoning |
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Firefighters
Drew Pavao and Sarah Batchelder display new monitoring
technology deployed by MFD in January. |
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Carbon monoxide (CD) is
the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in the United
States. Over 1,500 people die and more than 10,000 seek
medical attention annually.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a
by-product of incomplete combustion of natural gas, oil, coal,
kerosene, wood, etc (fossilized fuels). What makes carbon
monoxide so insidious is its attraction to hemoglobin (oxygen
carrying pigment in red blood cells). Carbon monoxide has
an affinity for hemoglobin that is 200 times that of oxygen.
In other words, those who succumb to carbon monoxide asphyxiate
at the cellular level. Signs and symptoms of CO poisoning
include flu-like symptoms, mild headaches and nausea,
progressing to more severe headaches, confusion,
unconsciousness, and eventually death.
There are many possible
sources of carbon monoxide in your home. Furnaces,
fireplaces, hot water heaters, space heaters, and virtually any
other appliance that operates from a fossilized fuel (barbecue
grills should never be operated indoors or in the garage).
There are two issues that must be considered when dealing with
appliances and the possibility of carbon monoxide; one is
incomplete fuel combustion and the other is inadequate exhaust
removal (proper ventilation).
A carbon monoxide detector
is a worthwhile investment. It is often difficult to
determine whether an alarm is false or a bona fide CO emergency.
If you carbon monoxide detector activates or you experience
symptoms that you feel could be carbon monoxide poisoning, get
to fresh air immediately. Open doors and windows and leave
your house. If you have physical signs and symptoms call
911. You should be seen in an emergency room. Do not
ignore potential symptoms of CO poisoning.
In the past, we had no
means to identify the presence of Carbon Monoxide (CO) in the
field, other than thru the detection of one of our "hand-held"
gas monitors thru the ambient air. The Marysville Division
of Fire recently received a federal grant and purchased 3 Masimo
RAD-57 portable CO-Oximeters. This piece of equipment
applies a probe to the finger of a patient and determines the
pulse, oxygen level AND the presence or absence of CO in the
patient's blood. Within the first week of obtaining this
equipment several patients were identified with elevated CO
levels that might have gone undetected unless more extensive
testing had been performed in the hospital.
Your best defense against
this silent killer is proper maintenance of your combustion
appliances, ensuring that they operate and are ventilated
properly. Common sense and proper appliance maintenance
goes a long way. It's up to you; your life may depend on
it. |
|
 |
|
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|
October 10, 2007 |
|
Carbon Monoxide:
The Silent Killer |
|
Carbon monoxide (CD) is
the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in the United
States. Over 1,500 people die and more than 10,000 seek
medical attention annually. Carbon monoxide is a
flammable, colorless, and tasteless gas resulting from the
incomplete combustion of fuel.
As a matter-of-fact, the
gas company adds a compound called mercaptan to natural gas
because methane (natural gas) does not have an odor. This
is the "rotten egg" odor you smell to make you aware of the
presence (or release) of natural gas.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a
by-product of incomplete combustion of natural gas, oil, coal,
kerosene, wood, etc (fossilized fuels). What makes carbon
monoxide so insidious is its attraction to hemoglobin (oxygen
carrying pigment in red blood cells). Carbon monoxide has
an affinity for hemoglobin that is 200 times that of oxygen.
In other words, those who succumb to carbon monoxide asphyxiate
at the cellular level. Signs and symptoms of CO poisoning
include flu-like symptoms, mild headaches and nausea,
progressing to more severe headaches, confusion,
unconsciousness, and eventually death.
There are many possible
sources of carbon monoxide in your home. Furnaces,
fireplaces, hot water heaters, space heaters, and virtually any
other appliance that operates from a fossilized fuel (barbecue
grills should never be operated indoors or in the garage).
There are two issues that must be considered when dealing with
appliances and the possibility of carbon monoxide; one is
incomplete fuel combustion and the other is inadequate exhaust
removal (proper ventilation).
Appliances must be
properly installed and operating. Flues and chimneys
should be properly maintained and in good working order.
Sometimes a condition called "backdrafting" can occur.
This condition may exist in newer, more "energy efficient"
airtight homes. In very simple terms, the air pressure
inside an airtight home may become lower than the outside air
pressure, causing a reversal of the flue gases into your home.
An inadequate air supply in a room containing gas-operated
appliances can also draw contaminated air and spread it
throughout the house.
High-efficiency furnaces
are commonly used in newer homes. These furnaces often
vent exhaust gases through the side of the home. We have
had several carbon monoxide calls in the past that involve the
blockage of one of these vents. Snow that accumulates to
the level of the exhaust pipe is one of the many causative
factors that can affect the proper elimination of exhaust gases
in these appliances. In most cases sensors will shut down
the furnace if an exhaust pipe is blocked. Then again, it
might not. Are you willing to bet your life on it?
Some of the warning signs
of potential carbon monoxide problems in your home might include
moisture inside of windows, a "high humidity smell" inside your
home, and black streaks on walls and around registers.
A carbon monoxide detector
is a worthwhile investment. There are many
types/variations of carbon monoxide detectors available on the
market. It is often difficult to determine whether an
alarm is false or a bona fide CO emergency. If your carbon
monoxide detector activates or you experience symptoms that you
feel could be carbon monoxide poisoning, get to fresh air
immediately. Open doors and windows and leave the house.
If you have physical signs and symptoms, call 9-1-1. You
should be seen in an emergency room. Do not ignore
potential symptoms of CO poisoning.
Your best defense against
this silent killer is proper maintenance of your combustion
appliances, ensuring that they operate and are ventilated
properly. You should never operate your barbecue grill
indoors, even in the garage. You should not use your gas
oven to heat your home or let your car idle in the garage, even
with the garage door open. Common sense and proper
appliance maintenance goes a long way. It's up to you; our
life may depend on it. |
|
 |
|
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|
October 10, 2007 |
|
Change Your Clock,
Change Your Battery |
|
As the time change
approaches on Sunday, November 4th, the Marysville Division of
Fire wants to remind residents to make another change that could
save their lives - changing the batteries in their smoke alarms
and carbon monoxide detectors.
Tragically, fire can kill
selectively. Those most at risk include:
-
Children -
Approximately 1,000 children under the age of 20 die each
your in home fires. Children under age five are at
twice the risk of dying in a home fire. Eighty percent
of fatal home fire victims who were children were killed in
homes without working smoke alarms.
-
Seniors -
Adults over age 75 are three times more likely to die in
home fires than the rest of the population; those over 85
are 4.5 times more likely to die in a home fire. Many
seniors are unable to escape quickly.
-
Low-Income
Households - Many low-income families are unable to
afford batteries for their smoke alarms. These same
households often rely on poorly installed, maintained or
misused portable or area heating equipment - a main cause of
fatal home fires.
Nonworking smoke alarms
rob residents of the protective benefits home fire safety
devices were designed to provide. The most commonly cited
casue of nonworking smoke alarms: dead or missing
batteries.
Changing smoke alarm
batteries at least once a year is one of the simplest, most
effective ways to reduce these tragic deaths and injuries.
In fact, working smoke alarms nearly cut in half the risk of
dying in a home fire. Additionally, you should replace
your smoke alarms every ten years.
Smoke alarm maintenance is
a simple, effective way to reduce home fire deaths.
Children and senior citizens are most at risk, and a working
smoke alarm can give them the extra seconds they need to get our
safely. Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors by
pushing the test button, planning "two ways out" and practicing
escape routes with the entire family.
|
|
Adopt a simple,
lifesaving habit: change your smoke alarm and carbon
monoxide detector batteries when changing clocks back to
standard time each fall, this year on Sunday, November 4th. |
|
|
-------------------------------------------------- |
|
September 11, 2007 |
|
Open Flames and
Decorative Material in Businesses and Places of Public Assembly |
|
Every year at this time we
are confronted with fire safety issues, particularly in the
areas of utilizing open flames (i.e. candles), and the use of
decorative material. Business owners and members of the
community sometimes unknowingly erect unsafe displays and
decorations. It is our goal, and part of a continuing
effort, to educate the public in these and other areas of fire
safety. Many of the issues addressed below are found in
the Ohio Fire Code (section noted in parenthesis).
We are always available to assist those who may have questions
regarding the fire code and related safety issues.
The following is provided
in the interest of public safety:
-
It is unlawful to
utilize or allow to be utilized, any open flame, burning
candle or candles in connection with any public meeting or
gathering or similar purpose in assembly or educational
occupancies without first obtaining a permit (308.3).
Candles are not permitted in areas where occupants stand, or
in an aisle or exit (308.3.4d). This includes
auditorium aisles, entrances to businesses/places of
assembly, etc. With the approval of the local fire
official, and when adequate safeguards have been taken,
participants in religious ceremonies are allowed to carry
hand-held candles. Hand-held candles are not to be
passed from one person to another while lighted
(308.3.5e).
-
The use of combustible
decorative material in a manner, which is inconsistent with
the intent of the Ohio Fire Code, is a serious problem.
All decorative materials must be either noncombustible or
flame-resistant. No decorations or other objects shall
be placed to obstruct exits, access thereto, egress
therefrom, or visibility thereof (806.1.3c and 1027.4).
In applicable businesses and occupancies, curtains,
draperies, hangings and other decorative materials suspended
from walls or ceilings shall be flame-resistant (805.1).
There is a particular problem with the use of decorative
material (such as straw, hay, corn shocks, and live
Christmas trees) during this time of year. Such
material should never be placed inside a building or against
the side of a building. Each year we are called to, or
discover a business in which these types of materials are
placed against a building, and often next to an
entrances/exit. This is a particularly dangerous
practice. Carelessly discarded smoking materials could
very well lead to ignition and subsequent destruction of
property, including the resultant fire blocking the exit of
people within the building.
During the holiday season,
and at other times throughout the year, we are confronted with
the use of candles, decorative materials, and open flames in
inappropriate areas. The Marysville Division of Fire is
always ready to assist and inform the public on fire safety
issues. Our "perspective" is based on professional
experience as well as tragic historical events, many of which
fostered these and other sections of our nation's fire codes.
Not only are many of these issues common sense, they are also
the law. Let us work together to protect our community and
increase general fire safety awareness, particularly during the
upcoming holiday season. |
|
-------------------------------------------------- |
|
July 11, 2007 |
|
Community Warning
and Information Radio Station |
|
The City of Marysville now
has a community information AM radio station.
Citizens of the City of Marysville can tune to AM Radio
1650 to receive emergency broadcasts and other useful
information regarding traffic, city services, and upcoming
events. This system is also directly tied to our "tornado
sirens", so that when they are activated, an emergency
alert/message is transmitted as well. The Emergency Alert
Radio Station (EARS) is designed to keep you, the citizens of
Marysville, better informed of not only threatening weather, but
other important community information and events. This
system will continuously be updated as needed to keep you better
informed, and prepared, to meet the sudden threat of severe
weather. |
|

Pictured above City of Marysville
employee Duane Lord installing an information sign on London
Avenue. |
|
-------------------------------------------------- |
|
June 14, 2007 |
|
Community Early
Warning System |
|
There are several means by
which we can now alert the community in the event of a tornado
warning or other adverse/threatening weather.
The first is useful as
an outdoor warning device. Our current Early
Warning System (EWS) commonly referred to as "tornado
sirens" consist of a networked system of 10 tornado
sirens. These are "silently tested" on a daily basis,
audibly tested on a weekly basis, and once-a-month by a
backup system located at the County Dispatch Center.
The test is a steady siren for a 15-30 second period.
In the event of
an actual tornado warning the sirens will sound for 3
minutes in a steady mode. This is repeated every ten
(10) minutes until the warning is cancelled by the
appropriate authority. Notification of the
cancellation is made through the cable TV community alert
system.
The City, in partnership
with the county has also instituted the "CodeRED
System". This is a system where thousands of homes can be
notified in the span of a few minutes of an emergency requiring
prompt action.
Today, the City came on
online with another means to keep the community informed.
Through a community information AM radio station, citizens of
the City of Marysville can tune to AM Radio 1650
to receive emergency broadcasts and other useful information
regarding traffic, city services, and upcoming events.
This system is also directly tied to our "tornado sirens", so
that when they are activated, an emergency alert/message is also
transmitted as well. The Emergency Alert Radio System
(EARS) is designed to keep you, the citizens of Marysville,
better informed of not only threatening weather, but other
important community information and events. This system
will gradually evolve over the next 30 days, and after that be
updated as needed to keep you better informed, and prepared, to
meet the sudden threat of severe weather. |
|
-------------------------------------------------- |
|
March 7, 2007 |
|
Tornado and Severe
Weather Preparedness |
|
This is the time of year that our attention becomes more
focused on severe weather and in particular the threat
of tornadoes. Awareness of approaching and threatening
weather as well as the monitoring of local radio and
television stations can warn you of an approaching
threat.
The City of Marysville maintains a network
of Early Warning Sirens (EWS) that are electronically
monitored and provided with “battery backup” power as
well. It is important to remember that outdoor warning
sirens are not intended to serve as an early warning
system for those indoors and the audible range of these
sirens is often affected by wind, traffic noise, etc.
We will be
installing an additional siren within the next 30 days
in the vicinity of County Home Road and State Route 4.
There are also plans for additional sirens to be added
over the next several years. Within the next three
months we will be adding a low-power AM Emergency
Advisory Radio Station (EARS) that will broadcast
emergency as well as local information updates
throughout the community.
The purchase of a NOAA weather radio can go a long ways
in providing advance warning of threatening weather for
those indoors or traveling. Education and awareness of
protective measures as well as creating a “disaster kit”
for the home are important preventative measures as
well. The Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness (OCSWA)
provides valuable information on these topics through
their website at
http://www.ocswa.ohio.gov/default.aspx.
There will be a state wide Early Warning System test on
Wednesday, March 28th at 0950 AM. When you
hear the sirens ask yourself; are you prepared? |
|
-------------------------------------------------- |
|
February 20, 2007 |
|
Fire Hydrant Access
and Visibility |
|
For us to effectively
access a water supply during an emergency, it is critical that
fire hydrants be readily accessible and visible to responding
crews. Recent severe weather has made this a challenging
task. Significant snowfall accumulation brings out the
snow plows, snow blowers, and shovels. It is incumbent on
us all, as a community, to ensure that fire hydrants are not
visually or physically obstructed.
Some of our hydrants in
outlying areas also have elevated hydrant markers to identify
their location. It is important, even with those that are
clearly identified, to be readily accessible in an emergency.
Even when we aren't dealing with severe weather, we sometimes
encounter situations where vehicles, weeds, shrubs, etc. block
access to or visibility of fire hydrants. It's not only a
safety issue; it's a legal issue as well.
The Marysville Division of
Fire needs your help so we can help you. Please keep fire
hydrants clear of snow and other obstructions. Further
information can be obtained by contacting the Marysville
Division of Fire at (937) 642-2065. |
|
-------------------------------------------------- |
|
October 26, 2006 |
|
Fire Prevention |
|
The Marysville Division of
Fire recently obtained a fire safety education robot with the
assistance of homeland security monies and donations from area
businesses and civic organizations. "Freddie the Fire
Truck" is a self-propelled, remote control educational tool
designed to enhance fire safety education efforts.
"Freddie" has red lights, a siren, blinking eyes, squirts water,
and performs a host of other maneuvers that captivate a young
audience, emphasizing important educational points. The
fire safety education robot also has companion materials
including coloring books, badges, pencils, etc.
It is always difficult to
get important fire safety information to the youngest members of
our community, and it is precisely this segment of our
population that is the most vulnerable. "Freddie" is
quickly establishing himself as a character that the children
can relate with. We are anxious to get "Freddie" out into
the community to meet the kids and spread his important fire
safety message. |
|
 |
|
-------------------------------------------------- |
|
October 12, 2006 |
|
"Change Your Clock,
Change Your Battery" |
|
An average of 1,100
children die each year in home fires. You can help to
prevent needless fire deaths and injuries by changing your smoke
alarm batteries at least once a year. When you change your
clock back to standard time this month, remember to change the
batteries in your smoke alarms too. Once you've changed
the batteries, be sure to test the alarms. This simple act
cuts the risk of dying in a home fire nearly in half. The
Marysville Division of Fire reminds you: |
|
"CHANGE YOUR
CLOCK, CHANGE YOUR BATTERY"
 |
|
-------------------------------------------------- |
|
October 12, 2006 |
|
Decorative
Materials, Candles and Open Flames |
|
Every year at this time we
are confronted with fire safety issues, particularly in the
areas of utilizing open flames (i.e. candles), and the use of
decorative material. Business owners and members of the
community sometimes unknowingly erect unsafe displays and
decorations. It is our goal, and part of a continuing
effort to educate the public in these and other areas of fire
safety.
Around Halloween, many
communities and some private organizations create their own
version of a "haunted house". Unfortunately many of these
facilities lack the necessary fire protection and life safety
safeguards required to provide a minimum level of fire safety.
The Division of Fire typically has one of our inspectors
evaluate the situation with respect to use, occupancy
classifications, fire protection, means of egress, fire
protection/alarm notifications, combustibility of decorative
materials, exit and emergency lighting, and emergency
procedures. Many of the issues addressed below are found
in the Ohio Fire Code (section noted in parenthesis).
If you are in doubt or are aware of a temporary facility that
you believe is in need of inspection, please contact the
Marysville Division of Fire at (937) 642-2065. The
following is provided in the interest of public safety.
It is unlawful to utilize
or allow to be utilized, any open flame, burning candle or
candles in connection with any public meeting or gathering or
similar purpose in assembly or educational occupancies without
first obtaining approval as outlined in 308.3 of the OFC
(Ohio Fire Code). Candles are not permitted in areas
where occupants stand, or in an aisle or exit. This
includes church pews and auditorium aisles, entrances to
businesses/places of assembly, etc.
During the holiday season,
and at other times throughout the year, we are confronted with
the use of candles and open flames in inappropriate areas.
The Fire Department often has a different perspective on the use
of candles and decorative material than most people do.
Many of out Nation's fire codes were written because of a major
fire and large loss of life. This section of the code, in
particular, is based on common sense and historical occurrences
of fire because of inappropriate use of open flames and candles.
Consider the following facts:
-
Over the last decade, candle fires have tripled. In
2001 alone, an estimated 18,000 home fires started by
candles were reported to fire departments, an all time high.
These fires resulted in 190 deaths, 1,450 injuries and an
estimated property loss of $265 million.
-
Forty-one percent of
U.S. home candle fires begin in the bedroom, causing 24% of
the deaths resulting from these fires.
-
A special study found
that the candles were being used for light in one-third of
the fatal home candle fires, generally because power to the
home had been shut off due to nonpayment (24%) or as a
result of a temporary power outage (7%).
-
December had almost
twice the number of home candle fires of an average month.
-
Seven out of 10
households in the U.S. now use candles, with younger adults
more likely to use them than older adults.
The use of combustible
decorative material in a manner, which is inconsistent with the
intent of the Ohio Fire Code, is a serious problem. All
decorative materials must be either noncombustible or
flame-resistant. Electric light bulbs should not be
decorated with paper or combustible materials. Overhead
decorative material such as burlap, fish netting, or
similar-type material should not be suspended from the ceiling
of any building, unless approved (OFC 801).
There is a particular
problem with the use of decorative material (such as straw, hay,
corn shocks, and live Christmas trees) during this time of year.
Such material should never be placed inside a building or
against the side of a building. Each year we are called
to, of discover a business in which these types of materials are
placed against a building, and often next to an entrance/exit.
This is a particularly dangerous practice. Carelessly
discarded smoking materials could very well lead to ignition and
subsequent destruction of property, not to mention the resultant
fire blocking the exit of people within the building.
The Marysville Division of
Fire is always ready to assist and inform the public on fire
safety issues. Our "perspective" is based on professional
experience as well as tragic historical events, many of which
fostered these and other sections of our nation's fire codes.
Not only are many of these issues common sense, they are also
the law. Let us work together to protect our community and
increase general fire safety awareness, particularly during the
upcoming holiday seasons. |
|
|
|
|