From the Chief’s Desk
APRIL 2022
With spring fast approaching, spring cleaning can be one of many things on the minds of homeowners. With that being said, here are a few reminders when starting those to-do lists.
Check and clean out the clothes dryer vent. If clothes take more than one cycle to dry, chances are the vent is blocked. Not only is this inefficient, it can also be a fire hazard. Making sure the pipe/flex pipe is clear may also help prevent such fires from occurring. Vacuuming out any residual lint from in and around the vent pipe is necessary. Also cleaning any lint/dust away from the dryer area is helpful. Keep the area around the dryer free of boxes, cleaning supplies, clothing or other burnable materials. Cleaning the lint trap should be done after every use to minimize the chance of a fire.
This may also be a good time to pull out the refrigerator and clean/vacuum the coils, and behind and underneath. Checking and cleaning the filter above the stove is another area seldom looked at and should be addressed. If using chemicals to clean around your home, make sure rooms are properly ventilated and never mix chemicals to try to improve their performance. Always follow the directions on the label and always store cleaning chemicals in an area away from the reach of children.
In the garage, clear out any clutter such as old newspapers, boxes and other burnable items that could create a fire load or fire hazard. Keep fuel cans tightly closed and in a shed, detached garage or outside, and in small amounts. Don’t use gasoline or fuels for general cleaning or degreasing. Check extension cords for wear and damage and replace them as necessary and don’t use or run extension cords under carpets or through doorways. Remember that extension cords are meant for temporary use and not for a permanent fix or solution. Contact a licensed electrician to add outlets if necessary.
By now you should have replaced the batteries in your smoke and CO detectors. If your detectors are over 10 years old, they should be replaced. Checking these monthly for correct operation is crucial when talking about early notification of smoke or fire in the home. As you attend to the rest of your spring cleaning, take some time to gently vacuum or clean any dust accumulation off of the smoke and CO detectors.
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 volunteer their time. All schooling is provided for, so there are no out-of-pocket costs to you, plus a retirement program and a new stipend program for those individuals who attend calls and practices is currently being offered. We have the equipment, now all we need is you! Please visit our website today for an application to apply. www.waubekafiredept.com
Upcoming Community Events:
Annual Waubeka Fire Department Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser – Sunday May 22, 2022
Flag Day – Sunday June 12, 2022
Wishing you a Safe and Happy Spring,
Jason Caswell
Chief
