Fire Prevention and Safety Guidelines

At Monaghan Township Volunteer Fire Company, your safety is our highest priority. Fire prevention requires awareness and action from all members of the community. Whether you're a child learning the basics of fire safety, an adult responsible for a household, or a senior managing day-to-day risks, there are steps everyone can take to prevent fires. Below, we've outlined comprehensive fire safety tips for all age groups, the changing seasons, and holiday celebrations.

Children's Fire Safety

• Teach Fire Awareness
  Children should understand the dangers of fire. Talk to them about never playing with matches, lighters, or candles.

• Create and Practice an Escape Plan
  Develop a clear escape plan with two exits from every room. Practice fire drills regularly and designate a safe meeting place outside.

• Smoke Alarm Familiarity
  Test smoke alarms monthly and explain to children what the alarm sounds like and what to do if they hear it.

• Emergency Techniques
  Teach children to "Stop, Drop, and Roll" in case their clothing catches fire. Practice this technique so they remember it during an emergency.

Adult Fire Safety

• Stay Alert While Cooking
  The kitchen is a leading cause of house fires. Never leave food unattended on the stove, and keep flammable items like towels and potholders away from heat sources.

• Electrical Safety
  Inspect cords for fraying or damage. Use surge protectors and avoid overloading outlets. Replace damaged appliances immediately.

• Use Candles Safely
  Place candles on stable surfaces, away from curtains or flammable materials. Never leave them unattended. Battery-operated flameless candles are a safer alternative.

• Cigarette Safety
  Smoke outside, and always use deep, sturdy ashtrays. Ensure cigarette butts are fully extinguished before discarding them.

Senior Citizen Fire Safety

• Maintain Clear Exits
  Keep pathways and doors free of clutter to ensure safe and quick evacuations. Install nightlights to illuminate paths.

• Safe Heating Practices
  Space heaters should have automatic shut-off features and be placed three feet away from flammable items. Turn them off when leaving the room or going to sleep.

• Medication Awareness
  Some medications can cause drowsiness, increasing the risk of accidents while cooking or using heating devices. Be cautious and plan activities accordingly.

• Accessible Fire Extinguishers
  Install lightweight and easy-to-operate fire extinguishers in key locations. Familiarize yourself with their use before an emergency arises.

Seasonal Fire Safety

• Winter

  • Inspect and clean chimneys and fireplaces annually.
  • Use space heaters responsibly, ensuring they have automatic shut-offs.
  • Never use ovens to heat your home.

• Spring

  • Check all fire safety equipment, including smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.
  • Declutter your home to remove fire hazards like old papers or flammable materials.

• Summer

  • Practice safe grilling by keeping grills at least 10 feet away from buildings.
  • Never leave campfires unattended, and fully extinguish them before leaving.
  • Store flammable liquids like gasoline securely.

• Fall

  • Safely dispose of yard debris without burning it. Use community leaf removal services when available.
  • Service heating systems before the colder months arrive.

Holiday Fire Safety

• Decorations

  • Use non-combustible or flame-retardant materials for decorations.
  • Keep candles away from trees, curtains, and other flammable items.

• Christmas Trees

  • Water live trees daily to prevent them from drying out and becoming a fire hazard.
  • Place trees away from heat sources like radiators or fireplaces.

• Lights and Electrical Safety

  • Inspect holiday lights for frayed cords or broken bulbs before use.
  • Avoid overloading electrical outlets, and unplug lights before going to bed or leaving the house.

• Cooking During Holidays

  • With holiday gatherings, the kitchen can become chaotic. Ensure someone is always attending to the stove and oven.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it.

Your Fire Safety Partners

The Monaghan Township Volunteer Fire Company is here to support you. If you have any questions about fire prevention or need assistance installing smoke alarms, please contact us. Together, we can create a safer community for everyone.

Your safety is our mission!