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News and events from the Seattle Fire Department

Friends don’t let friends swim alone

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Seattle Parks, including pools and beaches remain closed as our county remains in phase one of Governor Inslee’s Safe Start plan. However, first responders throughout King County are responding to more preventable drownings as summer approaches.

If you plan to be in or near water, follow these recommendations:

Know the risks — Washington waters are often cold enough to cause muscles to not work, even on the hottest summer day. Cold water can weaken even the strongest swimmer. 

Learn to swim, including water safety and survival skills — To enjoy the water safely, learn swim strokes, water safety, survival skills, and becoming comfortable in the water.

Wear a lifejacket — Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved lifejacket when boating, tubing, rafting, swimming or other activities in or on lakes, rivers, salt water, or pools without a lifeguard.

Swim where there is a lifeguard — Swim in areas with lifeguards when possible. Wear a lifejacket while swimming in unguarded waters or until the guards start their service.

Supervise children in or near water — Always provide close and constant attention to children you are supervising in or near water. Stay within touching distance of young children at all times.

Do not use alcohol or drugs during water activities — Never use alcohol or other impairing drugs during water and boating activities or while supervising children around the water. Alcohol affects balance, coordination, and judgement. Exposure to sun and heat worsen these effects.

Learn first aid and CPR — Learn first aid and CPR. Seconds count—the more quickly lifesaving CPR is started, the better the chances of recovery. Dial 911 in an emergency.

This Memorial Day – Stay Home, Stay Safe and Stay Whole!

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The global pandemic has changed our lives in so many ways, including our ability to celebrate traditional holidays with family and friends. With summer around the corner and the Stay Home order still limiting community gatherings, no fireworks displays are planned along South Lake Union or Gasworks Park in 2020. 

While it’s tempting to make up the difference and try your own fireworks, it’s both illegal and dangerous. Summer fireworks cause more injuries in the shortest time frame than any other part of the year. This month, we’ve already responded to fires and serious injuries caused by fireworks. 

Handful of sparklers
Sparklers burn in excess of 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit and are the most common fireworks related injury for children under five.

Last year, Harborview reported a total of 44 fireworks-related injuries in just a week. Many were to the face and eye. Seven people suffered either partial or complete amputations, ranging from loss of fingers to an entire hand, and 20 were injured severely enough to be admitted to the hospital. Sadly, this level of injury is not deemed unusual for this time of year. 

Don’t become a statistic! Save your face, eyes, fingers and hands. The risk of losing a limb or permanent disability is not worth the short-sighted thrill of setting off illegal fireworks. Your pets, neighbors and first responders thank you for making the right choice not to use fireworks, especially this year, when so many are at home just trying to stay safe. 

Being safe with outdoor fire pits

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With warmer weather on its way, more people will be looking to buy and use outdoor fire pits. Before you start a fire outdoors, read through the outdoor fire regulations on the Seattle Fire Department’s website. Also check to see if an air quality burn ban is in effect by visiting the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency website or by calling 1-800-595-4341. Outdoor fire pits are allowed in the City of Seattle if fire safety requirements are met and air quality conditions allow for outdoor burning.

Keep fire pits at least 10 feet away from structures and vegetation

Before deciding to light an outdoor fire in a fire pit, follow these safety tips to reduce the chance of an unintentional fire or injury.

  • Ensure the outdoor fire is not more than three feet in diameter and two feet in height.
  • Keep fire pits at least 10 feet from your home, vegetation or anything that can burn.
  • Portable fire pits should be set up on a non-combustible surface such as patio blocks or concrete. Do not set them up on on a wood deck or on grass.
  • Keep a three-foot child and pet safety zone around your fire pit.
  • Burn only clean, dry wood.
  • Have fire extinguishing equipment readily available for use. This should include a shovel and two buckets of water, or a charged garden hose or fire extinguisher with a 4-A rating.
  • Ensure the fire is continually attended by an adult until it is completely extinguished.
  • Do not conduct fires on public property where fires are prohibited, such as in a park or on school grounds.

Keep in mind that beach fires are only allowed in designated fire pits at Golden Gardens Park in Ballard and Alki Park in West Seattle. Visit the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department website for more information on beach fire regulations and hours.

May 18: COVID-19 update for Seattle Fire personnel

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The following information is updated as of 5 p.m. on May 18: 

Quarantine and Isolation: 

  • Members currently in quarantine or isolation: 0 members
  • Total number of SFD personnel impacted since the beginning of tracking COVID-19: 127 members
  • Total number of SFD personnel who have completed their 14-day quarantine and returned to work: 127 members

Testing: 

This includes those who have received testing at the site designated for first responders and those who have shared their results from testing conducted at a private physician. 

  • Total number of known SFD personnel who have tested positive for COVID-19: 18 members
    (note: a previous positive test has now been ruled negative)
  • Total number of SFD personnel with a negative test results at first responder testing site: 93 members
  • Total number of SFD personnel who have tested positive for COVID-19 and have recovered: 18 members

Highlight of the Week:

The Seattle Fire Department has 73 firefighter-paramedics and 932 firefighter-EMTs serving this City, with an on duty strength of 210 uniform personnel per day. On this year’s National EMS Week, and especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, we thank these members and EMS workers across the world for their dedicated service.

Note: this photo was taken during a training.

Tonight at 9 p.m., crews will flash their lights for We Remember Night

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In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, we are participating in national We Remember Night in support of families of firefighters and EMS members who have taken their own lives. We want to help raise awareness about behavioral health issues affecting first responders, especially in midst of the COVID-19 pandemic where many of us are on the front lines providing emergency medical services.

More than 20 years ago, Seattle firefighters started their own Peer Support Team with the goal of helping each other cope with traumatic incidents, manage stress and build resilience. In addition to establishing resources where members can seek professional help, 24/7. We also support families, friends and communities who have suffered a loss. We remember that their lives ended too soon – their hard work, dedication and service will never be forgotten.

If you’re in crisis, there are options available to help you cope. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1 (800) 273-8255. We can all help prevent suicide. The lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.

To Ensure Appropriate Response Times During Bridge Closure, City Announces Additional Medic One Unit and Ladder Truck for West Seattle

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Post shared from the Office of the Mayor

Seattle (May 8, 2020) – Mayor Jenny A. Durkan and Seattle Fire Chief Harold D. Scoggins today announced the Seattle Fire Department will dedicate two additional units to serve the residents of West Seattle. A medic unit (Medic 26) staffed with two paramedics will be located at Station 26, and a ladder truck (Ladder 13) staffed with four firefighter-EMTs will be located at Station 37. Beginning in June, these units will be in-service for responding to emergencies 24-hours per day, seven days a week.  

“Even during this unprecedented and uncertain time, public safety remains a top priority and responsibility for the City. When it comes to saving lives, every second counts, and I’m grateful that Chief Scoggins who worked quickly to develop a plan to keep the West Seattle community safe during the West Seattle Bridge closure. By providing additional staff and units to quickly address fire and medical emergencies in West Seattle, the Fire Department will be able to maintain their high standard of service to residents,” said Mayor Durkan. 

“When we received information from SDOT about the closure of the West Seattle High Bridge, we immediately conducted an analysis of what resources were needed to ensure we can continue to provide efficient service to West Seattle residents,” said Fire Chief Harold Scoggins. “We commend the Mayor for continuing to lead with public safety at the forefront and approving our plan.” 

On March 23, the West Seattle Bridge was closed due to accelerated concrete cracking that was identified during bridge inspection and monitoring by the Seattle Department of Transportation. The bridge will remain closed through at least 2021 and until stabilization and repair can be made to the high bridge. Studies are underway to determine its remaining useful life after operational repairs are made. 

“With the West Seattle Bridge closed, it is critical that District 1 has life-saving emergency services available when most needed,” said Councilmember Lisa Herbold. “As soon as the Bridge closed, I asked Chief Scoggins whether another ladder was needed for the peninsula. I’m grateful that Chief Scoggins is championing the safety of District 1. The fire department analyzed response times for units travelling into West Seattle from other stations nearby in the City, which is required for many medical and fire incidents. With the closure of the High Bridge and limited and delayed access through the Spokane Street Low Bridge and 1st Ave S. Bridge, response times could be severely impacted without the extra resources.”  

West Seattle is currently served by six fire stations that include the following units: a battalion chief, six fire engines, a ladder truck and a medic unit. The addition of a medic unit will provide two paramedics who have received specialized training for responding to incidents that are classified as Advanced Life Support such as heart attacks, strokes, major trauma, assaults and more. Ladder trucks are a vital resource for fire responses, as they carry equipment for conducting search and rescue, ventilating structures, and have a ladder pipe that can be used to apply water at a high angle. The new medic unit and ladder truck are coming from SFD’s reserve apparatus located at the City’s Fire Garage. The department will continue to have other apparatus on reserve to support scheduled maintenance and for any unforeseen mechanical issues. 

The funding required for staffing the two new units, apparatus maintenance and fuel, and room accommodations at the fire stations is approximately $2.5 million for the remainder of 2020 and will be covered from existing resources. 

May 11: COVID-19 update for Seattle Fire personnel

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The following information is updated as of 5 p.m. on May 11: 

Quarantine and Isolation: 

  • Members currently in quarantine or isolation: 0 members
  • Total number of SFD personnel impacted since the beginning of tracking COVID-19: 127 members
  • Total number of SFD personnel who have completed their 14-day quarantine and returned to work: 127 members

Testing: 

This includes those who have received testing at the site designated for first responders and those who have shared their results from testing conducted at a private physician. 

  • Total number of known SFD personnel who have tested positive for COVID-19: 18 members
    (note: a previous positive test has now been ruled negative)
  • Total number of SFD personnel with a negative test results at first responder testing site: 93 members
  • Total number of SFD personnel who have tested positive for COVID-19 and have recovered: 18 members

Highlight of the Week:

This week we concluded our four-week long Friday Night Lights program. Thank you to all of our community members who participated, and who are continuing to physically distance from others and save lives. We are here to serve you during this challenging time of battling COVID-19 and will always answer your 911 call. Video credit: Seattle Channel.

Before turning on the grill this weekend, make sure to review some grilling safety tips

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With summer-like weather coming this weekend, more people will be starting up their grills for the first time this year.  As with all cooking, it is important to stay alert and near the stove or grill to prevent a fire from starting and getting out of control. The leading issues in grill fires are mechanical failure or malfunction, combustibles placed too close to the heat, and leaving a hot grill unattended.

Before you head to your favorite park to grill, check out the Governor’s Stay at Home, Stay Healthy order and Seattle Parks and Recreation guidelines. Currently, all outdoor grills and fire pits at Seattle Parks are closed.

Enjoy grilling safely by following these tips:

Setting up:

  • Barbecue grills are designed for outdoor use only. Never barbecue in an enclosed area – dangerous carbon monoxide (CO) can accumulate and be deadly. If you suspect CO poisoning, call 911.
  • Set-up your grill in an open area at least three feet away from buildings, overhead combustible surfaces, dry leaves and brush.
  • Make sure all of the grilling parts are firmly in place and the grill is on a flat surface.
  • For propane grills, make sure the hose connection is tight and check the hoses for leaks. This is especially important when using the grill for the first time in a long time.
Keep grills at least 3 feet away from homes, trees, shrubs and wood fencing

During use:

  • Never leave grills unattended while cooking.
  • Keep a three-foot zone around the grill where children and pets aren’t allowed.
  • Do not leave starter fluid, lighters or matches within the reach of children.
  • Use the proper tools. Long handled barbecue utensils and flame retardant mitts will prevent burns from heat and flame.
  • For charcoal grills, avoid adding lighter fluid after the coals are lit.
Use proper tools and flame retardant mitts to prevent burns

Cleaning up:

  • For propane grills, turn the grill and fuel cylinder off immediately after grilling.
  • For charcoal grills, allow coals to cool for 48 hours before disposing. If you are not able to wait, douse coals with plenty of water, and stir them to ensure that the fire is out. Never place coals in plastic, paper or wooden containers; place in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid.

More grilling safety tips from the US Fire Administration

Fire hydrant testing happening in May – You might have discolored water temporarily

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Seattle firefighter testing a fire hydrant

Each year, firefighters test all fire hydrants in Seattle to make sure that they are working properly and will provide sufficient water if ever needed for a fire. Working in collaboration with Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) who maintain and repair the fire hydrants, the Seattle Fire Department sets a schedule to test the hydrants during the warmer months.

Fire hydrant testing is happening now and should continue until the end of May. Hydrant testing is typically done in the morning hours between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m.

If you live near a fire hydrant that has been recently tested, your home water source may appear discolored for up to a few hours. This is normal and temporary, and the water is still safe.

If you experience discolored water, Seattle Public Utilities recommends running the cold water for a few minutes to see if it is clearing or still discolored. If the water does not clear, let the water sit for 1 to 2 hours. Then run cold water for a few minutes in your bathtub or shower. Do not run the hot water to try to clear the water. If the water remains discolored, please contact SPU’s Operations Response Center at (206) 386-1800.

May 4: COVID-19 update for Seattle Fire personnel

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The following information is updated as of 12 p.m. on May 4: 

Quarantine and Isolation: 

  • Members currently in quarantine or isolation: 17 members
  • Total number of SFD personnel impacted since the beginning of tracking COVID-19: 127 members
  • Total number of SFD personnel who have completed their 14-day quarantine and returned to work: 110 members

Testing: 

This includes those who have received testing at the site designated for first responders and those who have shared their results from testing conducted at a private physician. 

  • Total number of known SFD personnel who have tested positive for COVID-19: 18 members
    (note: a previous positive test has now been ruled negative)
  • Total number of SFD personnel with a negative test results at first responder testing site: 93 members
  • Total number of SFD personnel who have tested positive for COVID-19 and have recovered: 16 members

Highlight of the Week:

In April the Seattle Fire Department launched two Mobile Assessment Teams to test patients and staff for COVID-19 at long-term care facilities. In Seattle, nearly half of COVID-related deaths have been associated with long-term care facilities and over 90% of deaths have been individuals who are older than 60. By implementing the Mobile Assessment Teams, we are utilizing our trained paramedics and EMTs to conduct testing at our most vulnerable facilities to help slow the transmission of this disease.

Read more about this new effort on Fireline.

Paramedics test patients and staff at long-term care facility in Seattle for COVID-19.