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New Canaan Fire Marshal on Home Heating Equipment Safety

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There have been two deadly fires in the northeast in the past month. The first being a Philadelphia row house fire in which 12 people were killed. The fire was most likely started when a 5-year-old boy ignited a Christmas tree with a lighter. 

The second fire, a week ago Sunday in the Bronx, N.Y., in which 17 people were killed, was caused by a space heater that was either faulty or improperly used. The death and injuries in this fire were the result of smoke inhalation. The reason for the smoke spread was that doors were left open or did not close properly.

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New Canaan Fire Marshal: Taking Down Christmas Trees

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Taking down the Christmas tree isn’t nearly as much fun as putting it up. But the longer a tree stays up, the greater a fire hazard it becomes. All Christmas trees can burn, but a dried-out tree can become engulfed in flames in a matter of seconds. In a year where many people began decorating their homes earlier than usual, trees have been in homes longer than usual, presenting an increased risk of fire as the days go by. When Christmas is over or the tree begins to drop needles, dispose of it.

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New Canaan Fire Marshal Issues ‘Holiday Safety Tips’

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The holidays are an exciting time of year and to help ensure a safe holiday season, here are some tips from the New Canaan Fire Marshal’s Office. Trees

When purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label “Fire Resistant.” 
When purchasing a live tree, check for freshness. A fresh tree is green, needles are hard to pull from branches and when bent between your fingers, needles do not break. The trunk butt of a fresh tree is sticky with resin, and when tapped on the ground, the tree should not lose many needles. 
When setting up a tree at home, place it away from fireplaces, radiators or portable heaters. Place the tree out of the way of traffic and do not block doorways. 
Cut a few inches off the trunk of your tree to expose the fresh wood.

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New Canaan Fire Marshal Issues ‘Fall Fire Safety Tips’

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As the temperature starts to drop and the leaves start to turn it is never too soon to take some preliminary action to prepare for cooler weather. Not only will it save you money on your utility bills it will help ensure your safety and comfort during cold weather. Home Heating Systems
Should be professionally inspected, cleaned, and serviced at least every year. Many companies offer discounted rates for a maintenance call versus an emergency repair. Wood Stoves
As we all face higher heating costs for our homes we will be looking for ways to save a few dollars.

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New Canaan Fire Marshal Issues Safety Tips

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Each year over 2,500 people die in fires, most of them in residential occupancies.  National Fire Prevention Week is October 3 to 9 this year and the theme is “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety.” Fire Service throughout the country will be working to emphasize fire safety awareness as will the New Canaan Fire Department. Firefighters will be visiting schools throughout town giving demonstrations on how to stay fire safe.  Also, school, church and scout groups will be touring the fire house to learn about how the firefighters live, train and work.  

Following is a list of general fire safety tips to help stay safe at home:

First and foremost, have smoke detectors installed on each level of the home and inside of each sleeping room and make sure they have fresh batteries at least once per year.  If over 10 years old, they should be replaced. New 10 year detectors that do not required battery changes are best for replacement. 
Install CO (carbon monoxide) detectors on each level of your home to protect you and your family for the “silent killer”. If a pot on the stove catches fire, turn off the burner and cover with the lid or a cookie sheet to smother the fire.  Never try to carry the pot to the sink or outside and never use water.