Mike Savage, the fire chief for Blackpool and Little Fort Volunteer fire departments, is offering some important advice for residents living in the North Thompson Valley during Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 6–12).
“With cooler weather conditions, local residents will start burning wood in their wood stoves," says Savage. "We hope anyone who uses wood heat will take the time to ensure all pipes from the stove to the chimney are clean and in good condition. It’s important to clean and inspect the chimney and burn seasoned wood to help prevent creosote build-ups.”
He also advises people not to panic if they have a chimney fire. "Close the damper if possible. Get everyone out of the home and call 911. Ensure your family has an escape plan and meeting place outside the home.”
Savage notes it is important to ensure you have working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors on each floor, and to test your detectors monthly throughout the year. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fire Prevention Week theme for 2024 is “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!," to increase awareness of the importance of having working smoke alarms.
Another important piece of safety equipment each home should have is a fire extinguisher. “Check your family fire extinguisher to ensure it is still charged and ready for use,” says Savage. It’s a good idea to turn it upside down and right-side up three or four times to ensure the powder is moving if it is a dry chemical extinguisher.
Since winter is on the way, Blackpool Fire Rescue is reminding residents about heart attack prevention during winter work around the home. When shovelling snow it’s important to take your time while shovelling and pace yourself. If you feel tired stop and rest, and be sure to stay hydrated. “If you have chest pain or shortness of breath stop the activity and call 911 right away," advises Savage.
It’s always a good idea if there is heavy snow or prolonged deep cold to take time to check in on seniors and those most vulnerable in our neighbourhoods.
“We will post more tips about frostbite and hypothermia as the season gets colder," notes Savage. "If we have a prolonged power outage during colder temperatures do not use a propane or gas heater inside the home! These units give off dangerous carbon monoxide gases and in a non-vented environment it can build up quickly.”
The fire chief explains that during the winter months we see more and more people dealing with frozen pipes, and open flame heaters under homes are a major contributor to home structure fires. “Leaving a heater unattended or working alone is also a situation that can lead to a fire. Exercise caution and have someone help you. Plan your actions and check on the heater unit frequently while having an extinguisher at the ready.”
Slip and fall hazards such as icy sidewalks lead to first responder and ambulance calls for assistance. Many of these falls result in broken bones or serious sprains or strains. Using an ice melt or sand materials can help reduce the risk, and proper footwear is also key to good safety in icy conditions.
In colder weather taking extra time to warm your vehicle up and thaw a frosty windshield will ensure proper visibility before driving off. and help you avoid accidents by ensuring that you can see out of front, side and back windows in your vehicle.
“Always make sure you check your winter tires for proper tread depth to ensure adequate traction and stopping ability," says Savage. "Our local Kal Tire can help in that regard. Give extra stopping time and reduce speed in adverse conditions. Remember to drive to conditions, planning ahead to take some extra time in getting to your destination during winter weather.”
