Nichols Volunteer Fire Department

In The News:

2012-01-15T06:52:00.006-05:00

Tioga Downs presents new rescue boat to Nichols Fire Department...

Helping a Local Fire Department...

Tioga Downs C.E.O. Donates Half of the Funds for a New Rescue Boat

CEO of Tioga Downs, Jeff Gural donates to the the Nichols Fire Department $11,000 towards a new water rescue boat, making the dream of a new water rescue boat a reality for the Nichols Community.

It is greatly appreciated and Thank You Jeff!

Holiday tragedies prompt warnings on winter fires...

2012-01-02T09:52:00.005-05:00

NFPA reminds the public to take action to be safe this winter

In the aftermath of a number of deadly holiday fires, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) urges the public to take simple steps to protect their family and property from fire. According to NFPA, December, January and February are the top months for home fire deaths.

“Recent fire deaths during this holiday season are tragic reminders that we are at the time of year when home fires peak,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of communications for NFPA. “Taking simple steps to prevent fires and making sure you have working smoke alarms can save lives.”

NFPA suggested ten things you can do this winter to stay safe from fire:

All heaters need space. Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.
Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
Never use your oven to heat your home.
Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel-burning space heaters.
Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container with a lid. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
Make sure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside each bedroom and outside each sleeping area.
Develop and practice a home escape plan that includes two ways out of each room and an outside meeting place.

The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) and NFPA are working together to remind everyone that home fires are more prevalent in winter than in any other season. Learn more information about the organizations’ joint safety campaign, “Put a Freeze on Winter Fires”.

About the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
NFPA is a worldwide leader in fire, electrical, building, and life safety. The mission of the international nonprofit organization founded in 1896 is to reduce the worldwide burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating consensus codes and standards, research, training, and education.

Christmas tree fires likely to be more serious than average home fires

2011-12-05T15:14:00.001-05:00

NFPA shares tips for safe holidays

December 2011 – Festive lighting, windowsill candles and ornamented Christmas trees are staples of the holidays, but these decorative items also pose a fire risk if handled improperly. In 2005-2009, on average, one of every 18 reported home Christmas tree fires resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 141 total home fires.

Holiday lights and other decorative lighting were involved in an estimated average of 150 home fires per year during the same time. These fires caused an average of eight civilian deaths, 14 injuries, and $8.5 million in direct property damage per year.

“December is an exciting time where almost every home on the block is accented with decorations and seasonal lighting,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of communications for the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). “Though decorations such as candles or Christmas trees certainly spread holiday cheer, it is important to follow basic safety steps so celebrations go off without a hitch.”

Video: A demonstration showing how flammable a dry Christmas tree can be as opposed to a tree watered regularly.

Here are NFPA’s tips for safe holiday decorating:

Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.
Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Check the packaging; some lights are only for indoor use.
Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini light sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs.
Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged.
Keep decorations away from windows and doors.

For proper Christmas tree safety:

Keep your tree well watered. A dry tree can be extremely dangerous. See how flammable a dry Christmas tree can be in comparison to a well-watered tree in a demonstration by NFPA.
Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs.
Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
Get rid of the tree when it is dry. Check with your local community to find a recycling program.
Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

About the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) NFPA is a worldwide leader in fire, electrical, building, and life safety. The mission of the international nonprofit organization founded in 1896 is to reduce the worldwide burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating consensus codes and standards, research, training, and education.

Colder temperatures draw NFPA warning on fire hazards

2011-12-01T08:42:00.008-05:00

NFPA’s simple tips to stay safe and warm this winter

‘Tis the season for rosy cheeks, button-down coats, and cranking up the heat. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), it’s also the time of year when home fires peak, many of which are caused by heating equipment.

“Half of all home heating fires occur during December, January, and February, when we are fully utilizing our heating systems” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of communications for NFPA. “The public can reduce their risk of getting left out in the cold by following NFPA’s safe heating behaviors.”

In NFPA’s report “Home Fires Involving Heating Equipment,” in 2009, heating equipment was involved in an estimated 58,900 reported home structure fires, 480 civilian deaths, 1,520 civilian injuries, and $1.1 billion in direct property damage. Stationary and portable space heaters accounted for one-third (32 percent) of reported home heating fires, but nearly 80 percent of the home heating fire deaths, two-thirds (66 percent) of associated civilian injuries, and half (52 percent) of associated direct property damage.

Overall, fires, injuries and damages from fires involving heating equipment were all lower than in 2008 and fit into a largely level trend over the past few years. The number of deaths from heating equipment was virtually unchanged.

As temperatures begin to drop, here are some safe heating behaviors to follow:

All heaters need space. Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.
Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
Never use your oven to heat your home.
Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel-burning space heaters.
Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
Test smoke alarms monthly.

In an effort to reduce winter fires, NFPA is partnering with the U.S. Fire Administration on a special campaign – Put a Freeze on Winter Fires. For more information, visit NFPA’s website at www.nfpa.org/winter.

About the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) NFPA is a worldwide leader in fire, electrical, building, and life safety. The mission of the international nonprofit organization founded in 1896 is to reduce the worldwide burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating consensus codes and standards, research, training, and education.

Thanksgiving is peak day for home cooking fires

2011-11-09T19:33:00.001-05:00

NFPA urges caution when preparing holiday meals

November 9, 2011 – The number of home cooking fires on Thanksgiving Day was three times the national average of fires per day in 2009, according the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA.) NFPA is urging the public to keep fire safety in mind when preparing holiday meals.

“Thanksgiving can be a whirlwind of cooking and entertaining guests,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of communications for NFPA. “With so much multitasking taking place, fire hazards around the oven or stovetop can easily be overlooked. Cooks should be conscious of fire safety this Thanksgiving whether the menu is meant to serve two or 20.”

Cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and related injuries. In 2005-2009, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 155,400 home fires per year involving cooking equipment. These fires caused an annual average of 390 civilian deaths, 4,800 civilian injuries, and $771 million in direct property damage.

Download NFPA's Thanksgiving safety tips. (PDF, 868 KB)

To reduce the risk of cooking fires this holiday, NFPA recommends the following safety tips:

Keep anything that can catch fire such as oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains away from the stovetop.
Always stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you have to leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
When simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
Stay alert. If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire…

Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear path (to your way out of the home and someone has called the fire department).
Keep a lid nearby when cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Nov. 9 Nationwide Test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS)

2011-11-06T19:13:00.005-05:00

FEMA and the FCC will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) at 2 pm eastern time on Nov. 9; the alert will be transmitted throughout the country and will be monitored by EAS participants. After it has been completed, EAS participants will report to the FCC on the results. Although the nationwide test may resemble the periodic monthly EAS tests most consumers are familiar with, consumers may see or hear some differences.

FCC Public Notice (pdf)

Consumer Factsheet (pdf)

2011-10-26T17:59:00.000-04:00

It is time to reset your clocks! This year, Daylight Savings Time officially ends on Sunday, November 6, 2011 when clocks are set back one hour at 2:00 a.m.

After turning the clocks back one hour, spend part of the hour gained to change the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the home.

Test those smoke and carbon monoxide detectors also for that monthly test.

The USFA notes, "One of the best ways to protect yourself and your family is to have a working smoke alarm that can sound fast for both a fire that has flames, and a smoky fire that has fumes without flames. It is called a ‘Dual Sensor Smoke Alarm.’ A smoke alarm greatly reduces your chances of dying in a fire."

It simple, the only good smoke detector is one that works. BEEP-BEEP-BEEP A Sound You Can Live With! Learn Not To Burn, Be Fire Safe!

Halloween Fire Safety Tips

2011-10-25T11:54:00.000-04:00

Halloween is approaching fast. Here are some fire safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association presented by the Nichols Fire Department:

First, begin thinking safety. When choosing a costume, stay away from billowing or long, trailing fabric. If your child is wearing a mask, make sure the eye holes are large enough so they can see out.

Provide children with flashlights to carry for lighting or glow sticks as part of their costume.

Dried flowers, cornstalks and crepe paper are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations well away from all open flames and

heat sources, including light bulbs, and heaters.

It is safest to use a flashlight or battery-operated candle in a jack-o-lantern. If you use a real candle, use extreme caution. Make sure children are watched at all times when candles are lit. When lighting candles inside jack-o-lanterns, use long, fireplace-style matches or a utility lighter. Be sure to place lit pumpkins well away from anything that can burn and far enough out of way of trick-or-treaters, doorsteps, walkways and yards.

Keep exits clear of decorations, so nothing blocks escape routes.

Tell children to stay away from open flames. Be sure they know how to stop, drop and roll if their clothing catches fire. (Have them practice, stopping immediately, dropping to the ground, covering their face with hands, and rolling over and over to put the flames out.)

Use flashlights as alternatives to candles or torch lights when decorating walkways and yards. They are much safer for trick-or-treaters, whose costumes may brush against the lighting.

If your children are going to Halloween parties at others’ homes, have them look for ways out of the home and plan how they would get out in an emergency.

Happy trick-or-treating!

Proper Escape Plan Becomes Essential

2011-10-02T18:11:00.000-04:00

The fire prevention saying of “Play it safe, Plan your escape” has a lot of meaning for everyone’s daily routine. It’s usually during the month of October that schools and places of work hold yearly fire evacuation drills.

Usually we walk into a building the way we leave, through the main entrance. “No big deal,” most will say, “we do this when entering any building, even our homes.”

What if, and it has happened, this path of travel through the main entrance is blocked because of a fire? What do you do then?

A proper plan of escape now becomes essential. Preplanning maximizes a safe escape and is part of everyone’s daily fire prevention duties.

It only takes a moment to do a quick survey, upon entering a building, and plan an escape. Knowing two exits out of a building requires nothing more than a glance around. You can also try getting in the habit of taking an exit other than the normal entry.

NFPA Public Service Announcement - Escape Plan from NFPA on Vimeo.

A facility may have the maximum occupancy allowed. If something should happen, most people will head for the main entrance automatically. This action could result in injury or loss of life in a fire situation. Everyone should be aware of an alternate exit out.

In our homes we all have a feeling of security that nothing bad will happen. Seventy percent or so of fatal fires in homes occur between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.. This fact makes it even more important to have a home escape plan. Exit Drills in the Home, otherwise known as E.D.T.H. plan is a good way to begin.

Have a diagram or floor plan of your home showing locations of all doors and windows. Each family member should know two routes out, from every room. Bedroom doors should always be kept close at night to keep fire away if one should start. In a fire situation, check doors by touching the upper part first. If it’s hot do not open in. Exit out another door to the outside or a window. If the home is a multi-story building, open a window and wait for the fire department’s assistance. It’s a good idea to have smoke detectors installed on every level of the home. Test them monthly and change the batteries each year.

If a fire occurs, all family members should leave the home quickly, closing doors behind them to help confine smoke and fire. Do not stop to take possessions along. Report the fire immediately.

No one should ever go back into the house that’s on fire. People die or are injured because fire intensify and can get worse in a matter of seconds. Have a pre-arrange meeting place outside the home.

Your local fire department can answer questions concerning the establishing a fire escape plan.

Learn Not to Burn, Be fire Safe.

Smoking Leading Cause of Fatal Residential Building Fires

2011-09-15T06:05:00.000-04:00

The Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) recently issued a special report examining the characteristics of civilian fire fatalities in residential buildings. The report, “Civilian Fire Fatalities in Residential Buildings,” was developed by USFA's National Fire Data Center and is based on 2007 to 2009 data from the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS).

According to the report:

Ninety-one percent of all civilian fatalities in residential building fires involve thermal burns and smoke inhalation.
Bedrooms (55 percent) are the leading location where civilian fire fatalities occur in residential buildings.
Fifty-one percent of civilian fire fatalities in residential buildings occur between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. This period also accounts for 49 percent of fatal fires.
Seventy percent of fire victims in residential buildings were escaping (36 percent) or sleeping (34 percent) at the time of their deaths.
Smoking was the leading cause of fatal residential building fires.
Males accounted for 57 percent of civilian fire fatalities in residential buildings; women accounted for 43 percent of the fatalities.
Approximately 43 percent of civilian fatalities in residential building fires are between the ages of 40 and 69.
Thirteen percent of civilian fire fatalities in residential buildings were less than 10 years old.

Fires that affect our homes are often the most tragic and the most preventable. September, as our Nation marks the ten-year anniversary of 9/11 and the eighth annual observance of National Preparedness Month, FEMA encourages all Americans to prepare for emergencies—including home fire emergencies. “By preparing for a home fire emergency, you can greatly reduce your chances of becoming a fire casualty,” said Deputy U.S. Fire Administrator Glenn Gaines. “Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, test them once a month, change the batteries at least once a year, and make and practice a home fire escape plan.”

Lawn Mower Safety

2011-08-08T20:55:00.000-04:00

The mowing season is in full swing and keeping the grass cut is a chore. Everyone is doing quite a bit of mowing this summer. I’m sure all those home owners with lawns are looking forward to the weekly grass cutting? Yeah Right! lol

The result of a freshly mowed lawn is always a present sight but, using lawn mowers can be dangerous when they’re used incorrectly.

Each year 75,000 people are injured annually in lawn mowing accidents and 16,000 of those are children. Many of these injuries are burns caused by careless use of mowers before using or cleaning your mower. Before using or cleaning follow these safety tips:

1. Do not smoke while fueling lawn mowers. As we all know, gasoline is flammable and is explosive too.

2. Wait for machines to cool before refueling. Wipe up spilled fuel immediately. Never fuel a running mower.

3. Store and pour gasoline carefully and keep it in an approved container with a tight-fitting lid.

4. Check electrical mower cords for frayed or damage spots. Frayed insulation added to a metal mower, damp or wet grass, can cause lethal shocks or severe electrical burns.

5. Leave blade sharpening and electrical repairs to professionals

6. If you do your own cleaning and tune up, disconnect the spark plug or remove it before beginning. If your mowers clogs up with grass it’s safe to make sure they are shut off first. If a blade is turned by hand, the mower can start if the spark plug is still intact.

7. Never leave the mower without turning it off. It takes only a few seconds to run inside and only a few seconds for the mower to run over someone and caused serious injury.

Here's a very funny but good to the point on Lawn Mower Safety YouTube video that shows how important Lawn Mower Safety is …

When you're mowing your lawn, be mindful of children. “Awareness,” it's everything. Always be conscious of your surrounding and know what's around you while mowing.

Have a safe enjoyable lawn mowing season.

Learn Not To Burn! Be Fire Safe

Be Fire Safe When Barbecue!

2011-07-03T15:43:00.000-04:00

Summer is here! Millions of Americans will be having cookouts grilling those hamburgers and hotdogs. It’s important to remember and follow fire safety tips so that all can enjoy a safe summer season at those fun BBQs.

With the outdoor BBQ cookout season well on it's way and in full swing, a barbecue grill could start a fire if certain safety rules and precautions are ignored. Part of the beauty of grilling is its simplicity. So it’s simple but very important to position the grill far away from siding, deck railings, trees and other flammables. If there are children around, it’s critical that a child-free zone of at least three feet, if not more, is established around the grill to keep from an accident from happening.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, in 2004-2008, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 7,700 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbecues per year, including an average of 3,200 structure fires and 4,500 outside fires.

These 7,700 fires caused an annual average of 13 civilian deaths, 120 civilian injuries and $70 million in direct property damage.

Gas grills were involved in an average of 6,200 home fires, and charcoal or other solid-fueled grills were involved in 1,300 home fires.

More than one-quarter (29%) of the home structure fires involving grills started on a courtyard, terrace or patio, 28% started on an exterior balcony or open porch, and 7% started in the kitchen.

BEFORE BARBECUING:

• Check your grill thoroughly for leaks, cracking or brittleness before using it.

• Check the tubes leading to the burner regularly for blockages. Check your specific grill manufacturer's instructions.

• Make sure the grill is at least 10 feet away from your house, garage or trees.

• Store and use your grill on a large flat surface that cannot burn (i.e.- concrete or asphalt).

• Don't use grills in a garage, on a porch, deck or on top of anything that can catch on fire. Never use a propane barbecue grill on a balcony, terrace or roof; it is both dangerous and illegal.

• Keep children away from fires and grills. It is a good idea to establish a safety zone around the grill and instruct children to remain outside the zone.

• Before getting a propane cylinder filled, check for any damages to it.

• Never transport or store propane cylinders in the trunk of your automobile.

DURING BARBECUING:

• Keep children away from the grill.

• Don't wear loose clothing that might catch fire.

• Use long-handled barbecue tools and/or flame-resistant mitts.

• Never use any flammable liquid other than a barbecue starter fluid to start/freshen a fire.

• Never pour or squirt starter fluid onto an open flame. The flame can easily flashback along the fluid's path to the container in your hands.

• Keep alcoholic beverages away from the grill; they are flammable.

• Never leave the grill unattended.

BARBECUE SAFELY:

• When lighting your propane barbecue, make sure all the connections are secure, open the lid and strike your match or lighter before turning on the gas.

• Always shut off the propane fuel at the grill and at the bottle after you have finished barbecuing. Otherwise, this will lead to fire hazards, such as leaks and faulty regulators.

• Store your BBQ grill and propane cylinder outdoors.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the safe use, cleaning and maintenance of your grill.

• Test your cylinder for leaks on a regular basis. When testing for leaks, never use matches or an open flame. Use soapy water or a leak detector.

• Store your cylinder away from heat and insert a safety plug on the valve.

AFTER BARBECUING:

• Always follow the manufacturer's cleaning and storing instructions that accompany the grill.

• Keep your grill clean and free of grease buildup that may lead to a fire.

• Never store liquid or pressurized fuels inside your home and/or near any possible sources of flame.

IN CASE OF A BARBECUE FIRE:

• For PROPANE grills - turn off the burners. For CHARCOAL grills - close the grill lid. Disconnect the power to ELECTRIC grills.

• For PROPANE grills - if you can safely reach the tank valve, shut it off.

• If the fire involves the tank, leave it alone, evacuate the area and call the fire department.

• If there is any type of fire that either threatens your personal safety or endangers property, ALWAYS call the Fire Department.

• NEVER attempt to extinguish a grease fire with water. It will only cause the flames to flare up. Use an approved portable fire extinguisher.

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; this is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

NFPA announces theme for Fire Prevention Week 2011

2011-06-04T09:56:00.000-04:00

"Protect Your Family From Fire"

News releases By: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

May 31, 2011 – The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) announces the theme for Fire Prevention Week - "Protect Your Family From Fire." Fire Prevention Week will be held October 9-15, 2011. NFPA has sponsored the fire prevention campaign since 1922, spreading awareness of the dangers of fires and inspiring individuals to prevent the deaths, injuries, and destruction they cause. This year’s theme focuses on how to protect your family from fire by planning ahead and integrating simple things into your everyday life.

Fires in the home take a great toll on life and property each year. During the five-year-period from 2005-2009, NFPA estimates that U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 373,900 reported home structure fires per year. These fires caused an estimated average of 2,650 civilian deaths, 12,890 civilian injuries, and $7.1 billion in direct property damage per year. Smoking materials remain the leading cause of home fire deaths, while cooking equipment is the leading cause of home structure fires and home fire injuries.

Installing systems such as smoke alarms and residential fire sprinklers, as well as identifying potential hazards, can reduce the risk of home fires and property loss, injury, or death due to fire. Nearly two-thirds of home structure fire deaths occur in homes where there was no smoke alarm, or where smoke alarms were present but failed to operate.

NFPA has taken the lead in public fire safety outreach by serving as the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for 89 years. The annual public awareness and safety commemoration, which is proclaimed by the President of the United States each year, is observed by fire departments in the U.S. and Canada to mark the anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. According to the National Archives and Records Administration’s Library Information Center, Fire Prevention Week is the longest running public health and safety observance on record.

Visit the Fire Prevention Week website for safety tips, statistical information, and more. The materials are available for use by fire departments, teachers, families and anyone interested in learning or teaching about fire safety.

Spring Cleaning Begins...

2011-05-01T20:55:00.000-04:00

Spring cleaning time is here again. Remember, a clean house is a safe house. Remember that trash, boxes, piles of clothes and other combustibles in the home are fuel for fire. Getting rid of them will help reduce the chance of fire in your home.

Clean out storage areas such as garages, attics, closets, sheds and basements on a regular basis. Even warehouses are limited to the amount of storage they can safely keep. Don't allow areas in your home to become tempting fuel for a fire. Throw away or giveaway items you are no longer using. Clutter gives fire a place to start and creates obstacles that might prevent a safe escape.

Oily rags can ignite without a heat source because they produce their own heat. Throw them out or store them in the closed metal container. This includes dusting rags used with a furniture polish or spray.

Spring and summer time present the return of several seasonal fire hazards with activities shifting outdoors.

Among the most common involve cooking grills, wooden decks, and use of gasoline and other flammable liquids.

As we many begin the cleaning and clearing the debris that accumulated over the winter month, it's recommend that all should add home fire safety to their list.

To assist in fire proofing the home during the spring season consider the following fire safety tips:

* Check and clean your smoke alarm. Replace batteries in smoke alarms.

* Check and clean your Carbon monoxide alarm. Replace batteries in Carbon monoxide alarms.

* Check your fire extinguisher.

* Make sure electrical electrical outlets and extension cords are not overloaded.

* Have air conditioning units and other electrical appliances checked by a licensed professional

* Clear your basement and attics from old papers, oily rags and broken furniture.

* Make sure all fire exits or escapes routes that are indicated in your fire escape are clear of any debris and are not blocked off.

* Inspect your charcoal gas grills.

* Spread mulch at least a foot away from the house with a not combustible barrier in between, such as rock.

* Know when and how to call for help. And remember to practice your home escape plan.

* Finally, when you are finishing spring cleaning make sure all cleaning products are stored in child safety latched drawers and cabinets with the original labels.

Remember:

Keep Your Place Firesafe: Hunt for Home Hazards and ...

Fire Won't Wait...Plan Your Escape!

Overloaded Outlets Cause Fires

2011-04-06T18:07:00.000-04:00

One of the leading causes of fire is misuse of electrical appliances.

Many people are under the impression that there is nothing wrong with plugging more than one appliance into a wall socket, using multiple plug adapters.

Electrical circuits in offices and at home are designed to carry a maximum load which is fire safe for the wire size. Fuses that blow and circuit breaker that shut off indicate an overload and perhaps too many appliances being used.

Overloading electrical circuits have resulted in grave consequences, causing fires that could have been prevented. However, preventing a potential fire hazards is as easy as pulling a plug.

Don't overload electrical circuits with "octopus" multiple plug adapters. These adapters can cause electrical wires to overheat, especially if several appliances are being run from the same plug simultaneously.

Replaced frayed, worn, defective or broken cords on electrical appliances and never use electrical equipment around water. Exposed wires can easily set fire to anything flammable that they contact. Or fatal current may leap through your own body, especially around water.

Disconnect electrical appliances which aren't being used, besides by doing so saves money. There is also no chance of an item overheating electrical wiring in the house if it's unplugged.

And always use appliances that carry the Underwriter Laboratory (UL) or equivalent label. These items have been tested and as long as they are maintained and used properly, pose less of a fire hazard

Smoke Detector Information!

2011-03-06T19:59:00.000-05:00

Smoke detectors aren't new. The technology has been around since the 1960s. The single-station, battery-powered smoke detector, similar to the one we know today, became available to consumers in the 1970s. NFPA estimates that 93% of U.S. homes have at least one smoke detector. They save so many lives that most states have laws requiring them in residential dwellings.

Still a Major Problem

Although 13 of every 14 homes have at least one smoke detector, almost half of home fires and three-fifths of fire deaths occur in the share of homes with no detectors. Thousands of people still die each year in home fires where smoke detectors aren't present.

In addition, there are now more homes with smoke detectors that don't work than homes without detectors at all. These poorly maintained units create a false sense of security among occupants. Approximately one-third of homes with smoke detectors that experience fires have smoke detectors that aren't working, and hundreds of people die each year in these fires.

Tragically, the grave importance of installing and maintaining smoke detectors has not yet been fully realized. Most people who die in home fires are not in the room where the fire starts; working smoke detectors alert people to fire and give them time to escape in a situation where minutes can mean the difference between life and death.

Working Smoke Detectors Save Lives

Having a smoke detector cuts your chance of dying nearly in half if you have a home fire. By properly placing, regularly testing and maintaining your detectors, you can ensure that they are in fact working and will alert you if a fire breaks out. Make sure you buy only those detectors that bear the mark of an independent testing laboratory. Some detectors operate using an "ionization" sensor while others use a"photoelectric" sensor. An ionization detector uses an extremely small quantity of radioactive material to make the air in the detector chamber conduct electricity. Smoke from a fire interferes with the electrical current and triggers the alarm. A photoelectric detector uses a tiny light source shining on a light sensitive sensor. The alarm is triggered when smoke from a fire interferes with the light. All tested and labeled smoke detectors offer adequate protection if they are properly installed and maintained.

Make Placement a Priority

A recent NFPA report on smoke detectors found that there is a substantial number of households that do not have the devices on every level of the home, as needed. The majority of fire deaths occur at night when people are asleep. NFPA's National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72) says homes must have smoke detectors on every level of the home -- including the basement -- and outside each sleeping area. New homes are required to have a smoke detector in each sleeping area as well.

To slow the spread of smoke and fumes if a fire develops, NFPA suggests that you sleep with your bedroom doors closed. If you sleep with your bedroom doors closed, install a smoke detector inside each bedroom. Detectors should also be installed in other areas of your home where people sleep. In new homes, the National Fire Alarm Code requires hard-wired detectors to be interconnected, so that if one detector is activated, all detectors will sound the alarm signal. On floors without bedrooms, smoke detectors should be installed in or near living areas, such as family rooms and living rooms.

Detectors that are hard-wired into the home electrical system should be installed by a qualified electrician. If your detector plugs into a wall socket, make sure it has a restraining device to keep its plug from being pulled out. Never connect a detector to a circuit that could be turned off at a wall switch. Most detectors are battery-powered and can be installed with a screwdriver and drill and by following the manufacturer's instructions.

"Test Your Detectors! Let's Hear it for Fire Safety!":

Since smoke and deadly gases rise, detectors should be placed on the ceiling at least 4 inches from the nearest wall, or high on a wall, 4-12 inches from the ceiling. This 4-inch minimum is important to keep detectors out of possible "dead air" spaces, because hot air is turbulent and may bounce so much it misses spots near a surface. Installing detectors near a window, door or fireplace is not recommended because drafts could detour smoke away from the unit. In rooms where the ceiling has an extremely high point, such as in vaulted ceilings, mount the detector at or near the ceiling's highest point.

Maintenance is a Must

What good are smoke detectors that don't work? No good at all! That's why it is imperative that you keep your smoke detectors fit and in good shape. It's easy. Maintain your smoke detectors by:

Testing

Replacing Batteries

Cleaning

Dealing with Nuisance Alarms

Regularly cleaning your smoke detectors and following the manufacturer's instructions may help stop "nuisance" or false alarms. If this doesn't stop them, install a fresh battery in the detectors giving nuisance alarms. Evaluate where your detectors are placed if the problem still persists. Cooking vapors and steam can set off a smoke detector. If the detector is near the kitchen or bathroom, try moving it farther away. If nuisance alarms continue, install a new smoke detector.

No Substitute for Smoke Detectors

Fire protection in the home must start with smoke detectors. There are many other kinds of detectors which may be designed to detect such factors as high temperatures, rapid changes in temperature, and certain gases produced in fires. However, these detectors are not as effective as smoke detectors in giving the first warning when a fire breaks out. NFPA does not require heat detectors in homes, however, they may be used for optional extra protection in areas like kitchens, attics, and garages, where smoke detectors are susceptible to nuisance alarms.

Tests performed on the speed of warning given by smoke detectors and heat detectors for many types of typical home fires showed smoke detectors consistently give first warning -- often by enough of a margin to make a major difference in your chances of escaping alive. Smoke and deadly gas spread farther and faster than heat.

Contrary to popular belief, the smell of smoke may not wake a sleeping person. Instead, the poisonous gases and smoke produced by a fire can numb the senses and put one into a deeper sleep.

Smoke Detectors Are Cost-Effective

A battery-operated smoke detector for the home retails for less than $10. Smoke detectors with extra features can cost up to $25. Batteries cost $1 to $2, depending on the brand. A smoke detector for a typical hard-wired system costs $14-$18. Smoke detectors for people with hearing impairments cost approximately $100 each. In 1994, home fires caused $481,000 in damage every hour.

Now that you know the importance of installing and maintaining smoke detectors in your home, "Let's Hear it for Fire Safety: Test Your Detectors!"

"Let's Hear it for Fire Safety! Test Your Detectors!"

Winter Fire Safety

2011-02-04T20:16:00.000-05:00

NEWS RELEASES:

Peak season for home fires isn’t over; NFPA offers reminders for keeping fire-safe during winter

Half of all U.S. home heating fires occur in December, January and February. That’s according to the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Home Fires Involving Heating Equipment report, which shows that heating equipment is a leading cause of winter fires. In fact, heating equipment was involved in an estimated 66,100 reported home structure fires in 2008, causing 480 civilian deaths, 1,660 civilian injuries, and $1.1 billion in direct property damage.

NFPA and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) are working together to remind everyone that home fires are more prevalent in winter than in any other season. For more information about the organizations’ joint safety campaign, “Put a Freeze on Winter Fires,” and a complete list of winter safety tips, visit www.nfpa.org/winter.

“Winter fires are highly preventable,” says Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of communications. “Every tragic news story about a devastating winter fire is a reminder that simple precautions can prevent deadly consequences.”

Space heaters resulted in far more fires and fire fatalities than central heating devices. Between 2004 and 2008, fixed (stationary) and portable space heaters (excluding fireplaces, chimneys, and chimney connectors, but including wood stoves) annually accounted for, on average, one-third of reported U.S. home heating fires and four out of five associated civilian deaths.

Meanwhile, an estimated 15,200 reported creosote fires – 23 percent of all home heating fires – annually resulted in an average of four civilian deaths, 17 civilian injuries, and $33 million in direct property damage. Creosote is a sticky, oily, combustible substance created when wood does not burn completely. It rises into the chimney as a liquid and deposits on the chimney wall.

One in four heating equipment fires started due to a failure to clean equipment. Other causes include placing a heat source too close to combustibles, and unclassified mechanical failures or malfunctions. Roughly half of all home heating fire deaths resulted from fires started by heating equipment that was too close to something that could burn, such as upholstered furniture, clothing, or a mattress or bedding.

In addition to heating fires being a concern in the coming months, NFPA would like to remind the public that cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires all year round. This time of year, whether you are feasting on Super Bowl Sunday or simply cooking to warm up on a bitter cold day, it is important to stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling, or broiling. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of cooking fires.

About the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) NFPA is a worldwide leader in providing fire, electrical, building, and life safety to the public since 1896. The mission of the international nonprofit organization is to reduce the worldwide burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating consensus codes and standards, research, training, and education.

"Reproduced from NFPA's Web site, © NFPA (2011)."

Nichols Fire Dept. Ice & Water Rescue

2011-01-24T06:06:00.000-05:00

Members of Nichols Fire Department's Ice and Water Rescue Team conduct Ice Water Rescue Training.

Fire Prevention: Proper Escape Plan Becomes Essential

2011-01-14T06:03:00.000-05:00

The fire prevention saying of “Play it safe, Plan your escape” has a lot of meaning for everyone’s daily routine.

Usually we walk into a building the way we leave, through the main entrance. “No big deal,” most will say, “we do this when entering any building, even our homes.”

What if, and it has happened, this path of travel through the main entrance is blocked because of a fire? What do you do then?

A proper plan of escape now becomes essential. Preplanning maximizes a safe escape and is part of everyone’s daily fire prevention duties.

It only takes a moment to do a quick survey, upon entering a building, and plan an escape. Knowing two exits out of a building requires nothing more than a glance around. You can also try getting in the habit of taking an exit other than the normal entry.

Have a diagram or floor plan of your home showing locations of all doors and windows. Each family member should know two routes out, from every room. Bedroom doors should always be kept close at night to keep fire away if one should start. In a fire situation, check doors by touching the upper part first. If it’s hot do not open in. Exit out another door to the outside or a window. If the home is a multi-story building, open a window and wait for the fire department’s assistance. It’s a good idea to have smoke detectors installed on every level of the home. Test them monthly and change the batteries each year.

If a fire occurs, all family members should leave the home quickly, closing doors behind them to help confine smoke and fire. Do not stop to take possessions along. Report the fire immediately.

No one should ever go back into the house that’s on fire. People die or are injured because fire intensify and can get worse in a matter of seconds. Have a pre-arrange meeting place outside the home.

Your local fire department can answer questions concerning the establishing a fire escape plan.

Learn Not to Burn, Be fire Safe.

Make your holiday fire-safe!

2010-12-05T16:15:00.000-05:00

Decorating homes and businesses is a long-standing tradition around the holiday season. Unfortunately, these same decorations may increase the chance of fire.

Based on data from the National Fire Protection Association and the U.S. Fire Administration, each year an estimated 250 home fires occur involving Christmas trees and another 170 home fires involve holiday lights and other decorative lighting. Together, these fires result in 21 deaths and 43 injuries annually.

Following a few simple fire-safety tips can keep electric lights, candles and the ever popular Christmas tree from creating a tragedy. Learn how to prevent a fire and what to do in case a fire starts in your home. Make sure all exits are accessible and not blocked by trees or other decorations.

Live Christmas Trees:

- If you buy a real tree, try to get the freshest one possible. Christmas trees are frequently cut as early as October and placed in cold storage until the tree lots begin sales. Remember, a dry tree will ignite explosively and burn.

- A fresh tree will have a strong pine or spruce scent and a deep-green color. Needles will not fall off the tree at a touch. To test freshness, grasp a branch near the trunk and gently pull the branch through your fingers. If needles feel brittle, stiff or come off easily, choose another tree. A truly fresh tree will have sticky sap at the base.

- Prior to placing the tree in a tree stand cut off about two inches of the trunk, preferably at a slight angle if your stand will permit this. An angle cut permits maximum water absorption. Water the tree daily. The average tree will consume between a quart and a gallon of water per day. Recent tests prove that commercial additives are of little value. They also indicate that tap water is best for keeping the tree hydrated.

- Fireplaces and other heat sources, such as space heaters, will dry the tree out quickly. So, avoid placing the tree to close to them. Be careful not to block access to doors and exits with the tree or with furniture that has been rearranged to allow space for a tree to be set up.

- Never use candles or other open flame decorations on or near the tree.

Artificial Trees:

- If purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label stating it meets flammability standards. Many of these trees have a spray coating applied that may wear off over the years. You can test this by removing a small piece of the tree, taking it to a safe area outside, and applying a flame. If it readily burns, it is time to replace or re-treat the tree.

- Do not string electric lights or other wiring on the tree as this creates a possible electrical shock hazard. Illuminate metal trees with multicolor flood lamps designed for this purpose. Artificial trees come with safety instructions that should be read carefully and followed closely.

Holiday Lights:

- Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in insulation, broken or cracked sockets and excessive kinking.

- Use lighting only listed by an approved testing laboratory.

- DO NOT overload electrical outlets.

- Unless directions allow, DO NOT link together more than THREE light strands.

- Make periodic checks to wires - they should not be warm to the touch.

- DO NOT leave holiday lights unattended.

- Presents under the tree are very pretty, but keep tissue paper wrappings away from tree lights.

- Do not run lights or extension cords under carpets or rugs, through door jambs or across walkways.

Holiday Decorations:

- Use only nonflammable decorations of flame resistant decorations and ensure they are not located near any heat vents.

- DO NOT block exits. Trees and decorations should not block any exits within your home or work facility.

Remember, check your live tree daily throughout the holiday season. If it becomes dry, brittle or the needles turn brown and fall off, it needs to be removed from the home or office as the risk of fire becomes too great.

When disposing of your Christmas tree, never burn it in the fireplace. Most communities establish plans for either the recycling or disposal of Christmas trees, so watch your local papers.

In case of an emergency on base, dial 911.

Help ensure that you have a fire-safe holiday season.

For more information, visit: http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/citizens/focus/holiday.shtm.

Ten Fire Safety Tips:

2010-11-01T04:00:00.000-04:00

Here are 10 fire safety tips that will help keep you and your family safe from fire, please read through them and discuss them with your family.

1. Install and test smoke detectors

Working smoke detectors can alert you to a fire in your home in time for you to escape, even if you are sleeping. Install smoke detectors near each sleeping area, it is best if you install one inside your sleeping area as well. Test detectors every month (always follow the manufacturer's directions) and replace batteries once a year, or whenever a detector "chirps" to signal low battery power. Never "borrow" a smoke detector's battery for another use - a disabled detector can't save your life. Replace detectors that are more than 10 years old.

2. Plan Your Escape From Fire

If a fire breaks out in your home, you have to get out fast. Prepare for a fire emergency by sitting down with your family and agreeing on an escape plan. Be sure that everyone knows at least two ways out - including doors and windows - from every room. (If you live in an apartment building, do not include elevators in your escape plan.) Decide on a meeting place outside where everyone will meet after they escape. Have your entire household practice your escape plan at least twice a year.

3. Keep An Eye On Smokers

Careless smoking is the leading cause of fire deaths in North America. Smoking in bed or when you are drowsy could be deadly. Provide smokers with large, deep non-tip ashtrays and soak butts with water before discarding them. Before going to bed or leaving home after someone has been smoking, check under and around cushions and upholstered furniture for smoldering cigarettes.

4. Cook Carefully

Never leave cooking unattended. Keep cooking areas clear of combustibles and wear clothes with short, rolled-up or tight-fitting sleeves when you cook. Turn pot handles inward on the stove where you can't bump them and children can't grab them. Enforce a "Kid-Free Zone" three feet (one meter) around your kitchen stove. If grease catches fire in a pan, slide a lid over the pan to smother the flames and turn off the heat. Leave the lid on until cool.

5. Give Space Heaters Space

Keep portable heaters and space heaters at least three feet (one meter) from anything that can burn. Keep children and pets away from heaters, and never leave heaters on when you leave home or go to bed.

6. Remember: Matches And Lighters Are Tools, Not Toys

In a child's hand, matches and lighters can be deadly. Use only child-resistant lighters and store all matches and lighters up high, where small children can't see or reach them, preferably in a locked cabinet. Teach your children that matches and lighters are tools, not toys, and should be used only by adults or with adult supervision. Teach young children to tell a grown-up if they find matches or lighters; older children should bring matches or lighters to an adult immediately.

7. Cool A Burn

Run cool water over a burn for 10 to 15 minutes. Never put butter or any grease on a burn. If the burned skin blisters or is charred, see a doctor immediately. Never use ice.

8. Use Electricity Safely

If an electrical appliance smokes or has an unusual smell, unplug it immediately, then have it serviced before using it again. Replace any electrical cord that is cracked or frayed. Don't overload extension cords or run them under rugs. Don't tamper with your fuse box or use improper-size fuses.

9. Crawl Low Under Smoke

During a fire, smoke and poisonous gases rise with the heat. The air is cleaner and cooler near the floor. If you encounter smoke while you are escaping from a fire, use an alternate escape route

10. Stop, Drop And Roll

If your clothes catch fire, don't run. Stop where you are, drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands, and roll over and over to smother the flames.

Using prevention techniques will greatly improve your chances of never having to escape from a fire. Don't be fooled though, you never know when or where a fire will break out--always be ready! Be Fire Safe!

“Beep! Beep! Beep! Smoke Alarms: A sound you can live with.”

2010-10-03T05:29:00.000-04:00

This week, Oct. 3-9 is Fire Prevention Week and the 2010 theme is “Beep! Beep! Beep! Smoke Alarms: A sound you can live with.”

There’s nothing more important than to have an early notification of a fire, especially if it’s in the home. This year’s fire prevention & fire safety issue that is being highlighted is the importance of having working, operational smoke detectors.

In 2009, fire departments in the United States responded to an estimated 1,348,500 fires. These fires resulted in 3,010 civilian fire fatalities. About 80 percent of the fatalities occurred in the home between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. There was a civilian fire death every 175 minutes and a civilian fire injury every 31 minutes in 2009. In addition, there were 17,050 civilian fire injuries and an estimated $12,531,000,000 in direct property loss. These statistics are alarming to say the least.

There is a simple list of steps or guidelines that could possibly save you or your loved ones in the event of a fire in the home. By taking a little time out with your family to go over and practice these procedures will ensure that everyone knows what to do if or when a smoke alarm is sounded. The early notification of a fire gives you the needed time to escape with smoke alarms which are credited for saving approximately 8,000 lives each year, Stoll said.

Placement of smoke alarms:

•Should occur in every level of the home, along the exit paths and in the sleeping areas.

Installation of smoke alarm:

•Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

•Ceiling mounted alarms should not be installed near air vents or ceiling fans.

•If detectors are wall mounted, install between 2 and 4 inches below the ceiling on the wall to avoid the dead air space.

•Test smoke alarms monthly, and change alkaline batteries twice a year. Lithium batteries may last up to 10 years.

•Mark the detector with the date installed.

Here are some additional items in that simple list of steps or guidelines that should be gone over with along with smoke alarms in the home.

Escape planning:

•Plan and discuss with your family two ways out of every sleeping area in your home.

•Secondary escape routes from the sleeping areas may include windows.

•Insure bedroom windows open easily for quick use. During a fire, never hesitate to break a window if it will not open. Throw a blanket over the window ledge to help prevent cuts.

•Encourage residents to sleep with their bedroom doors closed. This prevents the room from filling with heat and smoke as quickly.

•Check the doors for heat before opening. If the door is hot, don’t open it. You must use the secondary escape route.

•If there is smoke in the room, crawl low near the floor to reach your exit.

•Have a designated meeting place outside your home where everyone can meet after exiting.

•Never go back inside a burning home.

Things that may be needed:

•ABC fire extinguisher for kitchen and garage.

•Escape ladder for upper levels of the home.

•Quality power strips and extension cords.

•New smoke detectors to replace ones five to 10 years old

•Artificial battery operated candles to replace the open flame candles in our youths’ bedrooms.

•Carbon monoxide detectors.

Help make sure that every home has the appropriate amount of working detectors to keep your family, your community, and co-workers safe from fire. It is encourage that you practice these fire prevention & fire safety steps with your family, and if you need further assistance contact your local community fire department with any questions you may have.

Test Smoke Detectors . . . Save Your Life

2010-08-28T09:34:00.000-04:00

The Nichols Fire Department reminds you to test smoke & CO2 detectors at least once a month. A broken detector provides no protection. Don't go without early warning. Make periodic checks routine in your home. Use the "Press To Test" button on detector to test. Train everyone to respond quickly at the sound of the detector. Seconds count! Test your smoke & CO2 detectors and save your live.

Follow these 10 easy tips on smoke alarms:

One of the best ways to protect yourself and your family is to have a working smoke alarm that can sound fast for both a fire that has flames, and a smoky fire that has fumes without flames. It is called a "Dual Sensor Smoke Alarm."
Place a smoke alarm on the ceiling of every level of your home and outside bedrooms. Children and older people can sleep though the loud sound of a smoke alarm. Make sure your escape plan includes someone that can help children and others wake up immediately to escape from the home.
If you keep your bedroom doors closed, place a smoke alarm on the ceiling of each bedroom.
Check smoke alarms monthly by pressing the test button.
Never take smoke alarm batteries out to put into other items like games or remote controls.
Teach children what the smoke alarm sounds like and what to do when they hear the alarm sound.
If there is a fire, leave the home right away by crawling low under the smoke and never go back inside.
If smoke from cooking makes the alarm sound, press the �hush� button, if your alarm has one. You can also turn on the kitchen fan, open a window or wave a towel near the alarm until it stops making the sound. Never take the battery out of the alarm.
Most alarms need a new battery at least once a year. Some smoke alarms have batteries that last for up to 10 years. If your smoke alarm is over 10 years old, replace it with a new alarm and a new battery.
If you rent, talk to your landlord about placing a working smoke alarm in your home. You still need to buy a new battery at least once a year for the alarm.

NFPA urges grilling fire safety

2010-07-29T10:41:00.001-04:00

As grilling season approaches, remember recipes for fire safety:

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is reminding outdoor cooks not to forget about grill fire safety as the peak months for grill fires arrive. People with gas grills should take extra precautions. In 2003-2006, gas-fueled grills were involved in 81 percent of reported home grill fires and were involved in 6,400 home fires, including structure and outside fires. The leading cause of gas grill fires was a leak or break in hoses.

“Nobody wants to see their backyard barbeque go up in flames,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of communications for NFPA. “There are simple measures that can be taken to avoid charring dinner and setting anything on fire.”

Although gas grills are used approximately one-and-a-half times more often than charcoal grills, they were involved in five times as many fires. Charcoal or other solid-fueled grills were involved in 1,300, or 16 percent, of home grill fires. The leading cause of these fires was something that could burn being located too close to the grill.

In 2007, approximately 9,600 people went to hospital emergency rooms because of thermal burns caused by grills. About one-third of the burns from gas grills happened while lighting the grill. Gasoline or lighter fluid was involved in roughly one-quarter of charcoal or wood grill burns. Children under five accounted for roughly one-quarter of thermal grill burns. Most of these burns occurred when the child bumped or touched the grill.

NFPA offers the following grill safety tips:

* Use propane and charcoal grills in outdoor areas only.
* Make sure the grill is located well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
* Keep children and pets away from the grill area: declare a three foot “kid-free zone” around the grill.

* Use long-handled grilling tools to give plenty of clearance from heat and flames.
* Remove grease or fat build up from the grills and in trays below the grill so it cannot ignite.
* Never leave the grill unattended.

Gas grills:

* Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year by applying a light soap and water solution to the hose. If there is a propane leak, it will release bubbles. If you do find a leak and there is no flame, do the following:
- Turn off the gas tank and grill.
- If the leak stops, have the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
- If it does not stop, call the fire department.
* If you smell gas at any point while cooking, get away from the grill immediately and call the fire department.
* Use only equipment with the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to set up the grill and maintain it.
* Never store propane gas tanks in buildings or garages. If you store a gas grill inside during the winter, disconnect the cylinder and leave it outside.

Charcoal grills:

* If you use a “charcoal chimney” to start charcoal for cooking, use a long match to avoid burning your fingers when lighting the paper.
* If you use starter fluid, only use charcoal starter fluid and never add charcoal fluid when coals or kindling have already been ignited.
* Never use gasoline or any other flammable liquid to get the fire going.
* Keep charcoal fluid away from children and heat sources.
* When you are finished grilling, let the coals cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container.

For more safety tips, videos, facts and figures, and audio clips, please visit www.nfpa.org/grilling.

NFPA has been a worldwide leader in providing fire, electrical, building, and life safety to the public since 1896. The mission of the international nonprofit organization is to reduce the worldwide burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating consensus codes and standards, research, training, and education.

Lawn Mower Safety

2010-05-16T01:00:00.000-04:00

1. Do not smoke while fueling lawn mowers. As we all know, gasoline is flammable and is explosive too.

2. Wait for machines to cool before refueling. Wipe up spilled fuel immediately. Never fuel a running mower.

3. Store and pour gasoline carefully and keep it in an approved container with a tight-fitting lid.

4. Check electrical mower cords for frayed or damage spots. Frayed insulation added to a metal mower, damp or wet grass, can cause lethal shocks or severe electrical burns.

5. Leave blade sharpening and electrical repairs to professionals.

7. Never leave the mower without turning it off. It takes only a few seconds to run inside and only a few seconds for the mower to run over someone and caused serious injury.

Here is a very funny but good to the point on Lawn Mower Safety YouTube video that shows how important Lawn Mower Safety is …

When you're mowing your lawn, be mindful of children. “Awareness,” it's everything. Always be conscious of your surrounding and know what's around you while mowing.

Have a safe enjoyable lawn mowing season.

Learn Not T0 Burn! Be Fire Safe!

Exit Drills In The Home (E.D.I.T.H)

2010-04-08T11:03:00.000-04:00

Once a fire has started, there is no time to plan how to get out. Sit down with your family today, and make a step-by-step plan for escaping a fire. Draw a floor Plan of your Home, marking two ways out of every room - especially sleeping areas. Discuss the escape routes with every member of your household.

Agree on a Meeting Place, where every member of the household will gather outside your home after escaping a fire to wait for the fire department. This allows you to count heads and inform the fire department if anyone is missing or trapped inside the burning building.

Practice your escape plan at least twice a year. Have a fire drill in your home. Appoint someone to be the monitor, and have everyone participate. A fire drill is not a race. Get out quickly, but carefully.

Install smoke detectors and keep them in working order. Make an escape plan and "practice" it.

Use what you've learned. . .

SET UP YOUR PLAN, including two ways out, a meeting place and. . .

CONDUCT A PRACTICE DRILL to determine if anything has been overlooked.

EVERYONE in the household NEEDS TO PARTICIPATE for it to be successful.

It may SAVE YOUR LIFE!!!

Play It Safe…Plan Your Escape!

Good Housekeeping Helps Prevents Fire

2010-03-24T16:11:00.000-04:00

Spring Cleaning is here again! Make sure you include getting rid of trash, boxes, piles of cloths and other combustibles that can start a fire. The Nichols Volunteer Fire Department suggests you clean out storage areas on a regular basis. Don’t give fire a place to start. A clean house is a safe house.

Remember: Keep Your Place Firesafe: Hunt for Home Hazards and Fire Won't Wait...Plan Your Escape!

Electricity . . . Friend or Foe

2010-03-05T21:42:00.000-05:00

Short circuits, misuse and abuse of appliances and cords top the list of one of the major causes of fatal home fires . . . Electricity. Pay attention to warnings against overloading electrical outlets. Plug in only what outlets can take directly – without the use of adapters. Overloading causes fires. Damaged cords should be replaced, not repaired. Do not risk your family and possessions to save a few dollars it would cost to buy a new cord.

KEEP A LID ON COOKING FIRES‏!

2010-02-01T21:23:00.000-05:00

It is strongly suggested you keep a lid on cooking fires. These common accidents cause painful and serious burns. Handle them properly if grease ignites in a pan, slide the lid or a larger pan on the fire to smother it. Don't use water or flour. They'll make the fire bigger. Don't carry the burning pan. Always call the fire department when any fire occurs.

One way to prevent cooking fires is to never leave the cooking area unattended. It takes only seconds for grease to ignite. A “watched pot” may never boil, but it is less likely to catch fire.

IN LOVING MEMORY of LeRoy A. Kemp...

2010-01-15T11:00:00.000-05:00

January 14, 2009:

LeRoy A. Kemp July 24, 1928 - January 13, 2010

LeRoy A. Kemp, 81, of S. Vanderkarr Rd., Barton, passed away while responding to the aid of others on January 13, 2010. LeRoy was born on July 24, 1928 in Smithboro, NY, a son of the late Olin and Hazel (Thompson) Kemp. He was a graduate of Owego High School Class of 1945 and for many years owned and operated Kemp's Poultry Farm with his family in Barton. On January 13, 1946 in Smithboro, he married the love of his life, Marion Aldrich, and together they have celebrated 64 years of happiness. Always willing to assist in a time of need, LeRoy was a lifetime member of the Tioga Center Fire and Emergency Departments, where he had served as Chief, EMT and Fire Police. In addition, he was Chairman of the Board for the Fire Commissioners and had assisted with the Tioga County Fire Investigation Team. He was a dedicated and well respected fireman who will be greatly missed by his community and his fellow members. LeRoy is survived by his wife, Marion; his daughters and sons-in-law, Susan and Gary Mandrino of New London, NC, Pamela and Richard Mott of Waverly, NY; a son and daughter-in-law, Milton and Nancy Kemp of Barton; brother-in-law, Edward Aldrich; sisters-in-law, Frances Gascon, Nelly Short, Betty Schmidt, Joann Rumsey, Florence Zimmerer and Julie Green; seven grandchildren, Roxann (Matthew) Galster, Karen Stewart, Michelle (Patrick Tart) Grimes, Andrea Grimes, Thomas (Melissa) Kemp, David (Brenda Hubbs) Kemp, and Sarah (Heath Bennett) Kemp; great grandchildren, Andy Garey, Samantha Stewart, Elizabeth, Catherine, Christopher and Benjamin Galster, Victoria Grimes, Kennedy and MacKenzie Hill. Several nieces, nephews and their families also survive. LeRoy was predeceased by his sister, Ella May Bill; and a sister-in-law, Adele Bettis.Family and friends are invited to attend a period of visitation and time of sharing memories on Saturday, January 16th, from 2-5 p.m. at the Nazarene Church, Route 17C, Owego, NY. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, January 17th, at 2 p.m. at the Nazarene Church with his nephew, Pastor Alan Bill and Rev. William Wells, officiating. Flowers will be provided by the family and memorial contributions are be directed to the Tioga Center Emergency Squad/Fire Dept., PO Box 185, Tioga Center, NY 13845 in loving memory of LeRoy A. Kemp. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting our website at http://www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com/. Caring assistance is being provided by the Cooley Family of the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols.

REF: Greater Binghamton Pressconnects

January 13, 2009:

In Memory of Leroy Kemp…

With the lost of Fire Fighter Leroy Kemp early today, our condolences, thoughts & prayers go out to the Family, Friends, and Members of the Tioga Center Fire Department. Leroy Kemp a 59-year Volunteer Fireman lost his life in the Line of Duty this morning while responding to an emergency ambulance call. Leroy Kemp, age 81, was killed in a fatal motor vehicle crash while responding to the Tioga Center Fire Station.

Leroy Kemp served in the Tioga Center Fire Department as a Fire Fighter and Ambulance Driver. A past Fire Chief of the Tioga Center Fire Department, he last served as the Chairman of the Tioga Fire District, Captain of the Fire Police and Company Chaplin. Leroy Kemp was also a retired member of the Tioga County Fire Investigation Team.

Leroy Kemp was a valued member of the Tioga Center Fire Company and will be deeply missed by his family, friends, the Tioga Center Fire Department, the Tioga County Fire Service and the community that he served so faithfully.

FD Memorial Maltese Cross by Vestal Fire Fighter Dave Hitt.

Have A Merry And Fire-Safe Christmas

2009-12-15T18:16:00.000-05:00

To enjoy the holiday season, remember to be cautious with

trees, lights, ornaments and fireplaces during this hectic time.

Fire knows no holiday...buy fresh trees and keep them away

from heat and out the way of exits. Get rid of trees once large

amounts of needles fall. DON'T DISPOSE of trees, decorations

or wrapping paper in the fireplace. Flying sparks can set the

roof or house on fire. Check lights before placing on tree. Frayed

or damage light sets should be replaced.

• ALWAYS REMEMBER keep the tree stand secure and filled with water.

• DO NOT place the tree close to a heat source, including a fireplace or heat vent.

• KEEP open flames away from your tree. Never use candles as decorations.

• ALSO REMEMBER to check and make sure your smoke detector is working and never remove the battery to use for another purpose.

Be Fire Safe To Have A Fun, Enjoyable, Joyous, And Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays!

Portable Fire Extinguisher Can Prevent Tragedy

2009-12-09T21:30:00.000-05:00

Every home, car, boat, and trailer should be equipped with a portable fire extinguisher. Having the proper ones and knowing how to use them is important. Most portable fire extinguisher are emptied in 30-60 seconds, so know what to do in advance. To operate:

Pull the locking pin,
Aim at the base of theflames,
Squeeze the handle,
Sweep back and forth.

P.A.S.S. is an acronym to remember on how to place a portable fire extinguishers into operation quickly.

REMEMBER, portable fire extinguishers are ment for small fires. Don't fight a large fire yourself. Call the local fire department if you do have a fire after getting everyone out.

N.F.D. New Web Page!

2009-12-04T10:35:00.000-05:00

With the termination of GeoCities on 26 Oct 2009, it marked the end of a long presentence for Nichols Volunteer Fire Department on the internet using the Yahoo-GeoCities web platform. Think the old web site was NFD's home for 10 years or so.

Nichols Volunteer Fire Department has now

re-established a footprint back on the internet here at Google's Blog site. The web link address to the new "Nichols Vol. Fire Department" is now as follows:

http://nicholsfiredepartment.blogspot.com/

Bookmark it and vistit often. Thank-you for your visit.