Winter fire safety tips

  • Published
  • By Leonard Lopez
  • Fire Protection Inspector
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Recently, Edwards AFB encountered a fire in the housing area that could have been devastating to all involved. The Fire Department's quick response led to the home being saved.

The occupants were able to return to the home after minor repairs were completed. The fire started in an outdoor trash container used to discard charcoal briquettes. Under normal circumstances, the container should have just melted, but it was placed next to the gas meter. The fire was able to melt the meter allowing natural gas to free flow and ignite causing damage from the ground to the eaves of the roof. If the fire had gotten into the roof structure, the housing unit and all the family's belongings would probably have been lost.

It is imperative that we practice risk management on the job and at home. The fire in this housing unit could have been prevented by allowing the briquettes to cool prior to discarding them, wetting them down or even placing them in a metal container. The family didn't expect or want a fire, but it did happen and they were displaced from their home.

As we approach the winter months, please take some time to follow some fire safety practices in your home, even if you don't live on base.

· Have your furnace inspected and serviced by a qualified professional prior to use. A furnace should be serviced at least once a year.

· Never discard hot ashes inside or near the home. Place them in a metal container outside and well away from the house.

· Never use a range or an oven as a supplemental heating device. Not only is it a safety hazard, it can be a source of potentially toxic fumes.

· If you use an electric heater, be sure not to overload the circuit. Only use extension cords with the necessary rating to carry an amp load. TIP: Choose an extension cord the same size or larger than the appliance electrical cord.

· Avoid using electrical space heaters in bathrooms or other areas where they may come in contact with water.

· If windows are used as emergency exits in your home, practice using them in the event fire should strike. Be sure that all the windows open easily. Home escape ladders are recommended.

· Test smoke alarms and make sure they are working.

· Test carbon monoxide alarms and make sure they are working. Carbon monoxide alarms should be located outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home.

Be sure every level of your home has a working smoke alarm. Plan and practice a home escape plan with your family. If you have any questions regarding this, or any other fire safety issue, call the Edwards AFB Fire Prevention Division at 661-277-3643/3124.

Remember - in case of an emergency dial 911 from a duty or housing phone. If you are calling from a cell phone call 661-277-4540/4541.