*****PRESS RELEASE*****
CITY OF BRENTWOOD
FIRE AND RESCUE
From: Chief Brian Goss
Date: November 5, 2012
Subject: Press Release: Fire Caused By Unattended Candle
THE BRENTWOOD FIRE & RESCUE DEPARTMENT REMINDS
EVERYONE TO BE FIRE SAFE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
The
Brentwood Fire and Rescue Department responded to a structure fire last week
caused by an unattended candle.
Fortunately in this case, the fire was discovered early and damage was
held to a minimum. Candles, however,
account for nearly 10,000 home fires resulting in approximately 100 deaths
every year.
The
holidays bring some unique challenges from a fire safety perspective. In order to help ensure that your family has
a safe and enjoyable holiday season, please observe the following fire safety
tips:
·
Never
leave candles unattended and always place them on a non-combustible
surface. Placing pine boughs, ribbons,
and other décor around the base of a candle is highly discouraged.
·
When
it’s time to place your luminaries, battery operated tea lights are highly recommended. Do not use candle-lit luminaries in high
winds and always place on an asphalt or concrete surface.
·
If
deep frying a turkey, follow all directions carefully and only use outdoors on
a concrete, dirt, or other non-combustible surface. NEVER use a turkey fryer on a deck or in the
garage. Last year alone turkey fryers
accounted for over 1,400 home fires.
·
Hold
off on bringing that natural Christmas tree indoors as long as you can, and
ensure that the stand is filled with water at all times. Also make sure that all light strings are in
good condition.
·
Never
run electrical cords under rugs or in high traffic areas.
·
Use
extreme caution when utilizing auxiliary heating devices in your home. Read
instructions carefully; many fuel-fired portable heaters are only designed for
outdoor use in well ventilated areas.
·
Be
sure that all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries and are
operating properly.
If
you have any questions or concerns, the Bentwood Fire & Rescue Department
offers free in-home safety inspections.
These inspections are voluntary for the purposes of safety and not enforcement. If you would like a firefighter to inspect
your home, call Robin at 615-371-0170 to arrange a visit.
THE
BRENTWOOD FIRE & RESCUE DEPARTMENT WISHES YOU AND YOUR FAMILY A SAFEY,
HAPPY, AND HEALTHY HOLIDAY SEASON!
