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Fire prevention tips for residents, businesses and buildings

FIRE PREVENTION TIPS FOR HOME

OUTSIDE

  • Secure home and garage areas by locking doors and windows
  • Clean up grasses, weeds, litter or anything that can burn
    from around buildings. Clear carport areas of all combustibles
  • Locate dumpsters, recycle bins and yard waste containers at least five
    feet away from walls and roof eave lines. If possible, keep them in a
    secured area. Do not allow them to become overfilled
  • Commercial customers can call Seattle Public Utilities at (206) 684-
    7665 to arrange for delivery and installation of locks for recycling
    and garbage dumpsters
  • Trim shrubbery from doors and windows to improve visibility
  • Install motion-sensor exterior lights or consider leaving lights on

INSIDE

  • Test smoke alarms to ensure they are working
  • Have a fire escape plan for all family members. Be sure it includes
    knowing all the exits and an outside meeting place
  • If you have a fire extinguisher, know where it is located and how to
    use it

FIRE PREVENTION TIPS FOR BUSINESSES/BUILDINGS

OUTSIDE

  • Secure business and garage areas by locking doors and windows
  • Clean up wastepaper, grasses, weeds, litter or anything that can burn
    from around buildings
  • Do not allow dumpsters to become overfilled. Locate dumpsters and containers at least five feet away from walls and roof eave lines. Use only metal or metal-lined receptacles
  • Place locks on commercial dumpsters or keep in secured area.
  • Trim shrubbery from doors and windows to improve visibility
  • Install motion-sensor exterior lights

Additional tips for construction sites:

  • Secure security fencing at construction sites
  • Store solvents, fuels and tools in a locked storage container or remove them from the job site when you are not using them
  • Remove trash and debris from the job site
  • Try not to store excess materials on the job site
  • Secure doors and windows on structures when crews are not actively working on the property

INSIDE

  • Test fire and life safety systems, including fire extinguishers, to ensure they are working and in compliance with codes
  • Develop and practice a fire response plan
  • Keep exit ways clear of items which could slow evacuation efforts