Fire Safety Tips

Dry summer weather leads to an increase in outdoor fire risk. Despite our region’s reputation for rain, the Seattle Fire Department responds to fires each summer which are the result of dry weather conditions and unsafe human practices. Below are ideas on surviving the summer fire season safely.

Barbecues

• Before lighting your barbecue, eliminate everything that may be hanging overhead and move the grill a safe distance away from trees, buildings, and other things that can burn.
• Charcoal Grills: Be sure to use starter fluids designed for charcoal barbecue grills and do not add fluid after the coals have been lit. Once they are cool, ashes and coals should always be placed in a metal container with a tight lid.
• Gas Grills: Make certain the hose connection is tight and check the hoses for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks. As soon as your meal is done cooking, turn the grill and the fuel cylinder off.

Fireworks

• Private use, sale, or possession of fireworks is prohibited in the City of Seattle. Make the right choice, the safe choice and leave fireworks to the professionals.
• If you want to include fireworks in your July Fourth celebration, plan to attend a public display, such as those scheduled for discharge over Elliott Bay and Lake Union.

Cigarettes

• Carelessly discarded cigarettes, whether tossed from car windows or dropped on the sidewalk, start many fires each summer. This habit can be very dangerous if the weather has been dry. Safely dispose of cigarettes in ashtrays.

Arson/Dry Brush

Arson is a crime that can happen at any time, any day of the year. Individuals can make a difference in preventing these fires. The following tips will help you prevent a fire from occurring around your home or business this summer.

• Clean up wastepaper, long grass, weeds, litter, or anything that can burn from around buildings.
• Remove dead plants or bushes as soon as possible. Leave your indoor and outdoor lighting on during hours of darkness.
• Consider installing devices that automatically turn on outdoor lights when they sense darkness or movement outside the home.
• Report any information you believe may be related to arson to the Arson Alarm Hotline at 1800-555-ARSON or call 9-1-1.

Safe at Play

Summer fun can include parks, lakes, beaches and campsites. The following websites provide safety tips and prevention measures to keep in mind:

www.smokeybear.com
Wildfire prevention
www.uscgboating.org
Boating safety
www.seattlechildrens.org
Water safety for children
www.helmets.org
Not just for kids nor bikes
www.safekids.org
Injury prevention for kids
http://www.seattle.gov/police/ prevention/Tips/tourist.htm
Crime prevention for visitors