From the Chief’s Desk
Summer is unfortunately coming to an end. School will be back in session soon, putting kids, parents and school buses back on the roads. Please drive with caution, paying close attention to buses and children, going to and from school.
When was the last time you checked your fire extinguishers?
Here are a few tips for using a portable fire extinguisher:
-Use a portable fire extinguisher when the fire is confined to a small area, such as a wastebasket, and is not growing, everyone has exited the building, the fire department has been called or is being called, and the room is not filled with smoke.
-To operate a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS:
1. Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism.
2. Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
3. Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
4. Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.
-For the home, select a multi-purpose extinguisher (can be used on all types of home fires) that is large enough to put out a small fire, but not so heavy as to be difficult to handle. Choose a fire extinguisher that carries the label of an independent testing laboratory. Read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher and become familiar with its parts and operation before a fire breaks out. Local fire departments or fire equipment distributors often offer hands-on fire extinguisher trainings.
-Install fire extinguishers close to an exit and keep your back to a clear exit when you use the device so you can make an easy escape if the fire cannot be controlled-
-If the room fills with smoke, leave immediately.
KNOW WHEN TO GO. Fire extinguishers are one element of a fire response plan, but the primary element is safe escape. Every household should have a home fire escape plan and working smoke alarms.
For more information on portable fire extinguishers, visit NFPA.com and search for “Fire Extinguisher Information”.
DATES TO REMEMBER:
August 17, 2024 125th Anniversary Celebration! – Festivities listed here
September 3, 2024 First day of school – Watch out for buses and children crossing streets.
October 9, 2024 Waubeka Fire Department Open House Wednesday evening from 5-8pm. Join us and learn about fire safety. (Food/refreshments will be provided)
October 31, 2024 Halloween Wear fire retardant costumes, visit well-lit homes for Trick-or-Treating, inspect candy for any tampering of wrappers.
November 3, 2024 Daylight Savings Time ends – Set your clock back an hour. Change the batteries in your smoke alarms and CO detectors. Replace them if they are 10 years old or older.
If you are ambitious, motivated and interested in learning new life-saving skills, plus want to meet new people in and around your community – then the Waubeka Fire Department could be for you! We are looking for energetic individuals who want to be part of a safety driven team, who want to be engaged in something worthwhile and who want to be involved in something extraordinary!
We know time is valuable, and we are capable of working with various schedules to accommodate eager individuals who are able to volunteer their time.
All schooling is provided for so thereare no out-of-pocket costs. Plus there is a retirement benefit and a stipend program for those individuals who attend calls and practices. We have the equipment, all we need is you!! Don’t just live in your community, LIVE in your community!
