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Fire Safety


Posted by P6 Sunday, October 26, 2008 - 15:11
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With summer behind us and shorter days ahead, one might believe the threat of fire has diminished. The varied fire safety challenges of the approaching seasons present hazards equal to, if not potentially more destructive than the summer months. While many regions of the country are entering the wet season, Southern California is entering what is typically the most destructive period for wild fires. 
 
The current dry spell, which has brought very little rain since February, has created critically low moisture content in the vegetative fuels covering our mountains and with the coming months, the threat of strong, dry east winds often referred to as Santa Ana Winds will likely compound the hazard.  Along with the rest of Southern California, the fire danger in the Tehachapi Mountains often becomes critical due to the influence of the east winds gaining strength while funneling through the pass. It is, therefore, very important for property owners and residents to maintain clearance of hazardous vegetation and other materials that will burn when exposed to fire. Adequate clearance around dwellings and other structures will provide a “Defensible Space” and will greatly increase the protection level of your property and your family. 
 
To learn more about Defensible Space and how local fire agencies and your neighbors are preparing, all residents are invited to attend meetings of the Greater Tehachapi Fire Safe Council. Meetings are held at the Golden Hills CSD on Reeves Street every second Wednesday at 2p.m.
 
With the cold, wet weather of winter comes the need for warmth and comfort, resulting in the increased potential for fires in our homes. Gas and wood burning appliances require regular maintenance and now is the time to prepare for the chill that will surely come. Have your heating appliances inspected by a qualified person before it is time to use them. Change furnace filters regularly and be sure combustible items are removed from hot surfaces. Wood burning stoves require regular cleaning and inspection to ensure that dangerous combustible deposits are removed from flue pipes and chimneys and that all parts are properly intact. Candles add a significant risk of fire. With the increased use of candles, the incidence of fires started by the improper use of candles has been on the rise as. Candles should be used with care or not at all.  
 
QUICK SAFETY TIP CHECKLIST
  • Test smoke alarms monthly; replace batteries when you change the time on your clocks. Smoke alarms should be replaced every ten years.
  • Smoke alarms should be placed in every bedroom and in areas directly outside of bedrooms.
  • Install a carbon monoxide detector. Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless deadly gas that is produced as a result of combustion. If heating equipment is not properly operating the gas may be fed into living spaces instead of being vented through chimneys.
  • Have a fire extinguisher near the kitchen and know how to use it.
  • Practice escape routes with children.Make sure you and all your family know two safe ways out of every room in your home and have a safe meeting place familiar to all.
  • Never leave cooking food unattended.
  • Use candles safely. Burning candles should be kept two feet away from anything that can burn, never leave candles un-attended, pay particular attention to curtains and draperies near candles.
  • If you have a fireplace in your home make sure the chimney is clean.
  • If you have a fireplace always place a screen in front of it when in use.
  • Check electric blankets for damage or frayed cords before placing on the bed.
  • Take care to keep curtains, tablecloths and bedding away from heaters.
  • When using your clothes dryer make sure you clean the lint filter each and every time you use it.
  • Only use one appliance per power outlet and switch off when not in use.
  • Store matches or lighters in a secure place not accessible to young children.
  • Clean out basements, garages and attics. Remove old paints, thinners and other hazardous waste products that may have accumulated over time. The next Household Hazardous Waste Collection day is November 8, from 9am to noon at the Tehachapi Landfill, 12001 Tehachapi Blvd.
  • Remove fuel from lawn mowers before storing them for winter.
  • Reduce the use of extension cords.
  • Post your address so it is clearly visible from the street at night.
For additional safety tips and advice visit your local Kern County fire station or go to the following web sites.
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