Whatever your traditions or customs are during the winter months, make sure to be safe when using decorations such as candles and lighting. Did you know that 1/2 of U.S. home decoration fires in December are started by candles? December 25 is the peak day for candle fires. Here are… [ Keep reading ]
Over the weekend, Christmas tree lights started a home fire in Seattle causing over $100,000 in damage. Unfortunately, this is the time of year when the fire department responds to more fires involving decorative lights. Be mindful of festive lights this month and take a few steps to ensure your… [ Keep reading ]
With the sudden arrival of fall and cooler weather, fireplaces are being put to greater use. Whether you use a gas or wood-burning fireplace, keep these tips in mind to ensure safety at home. Before using: Make sure you have a carbon monoxide alarm installed on the same level as… [ Keep reading ]
Home heaters are working extra hard with the cold weather we are experiencing. Heating-related fires are the second most common type of fires this time of year. As a reminder, make sure to give your heaters space and consider taking these precautions to prevent heating-related fires in your home. Give… [ Keep reading ]
How to respond to someone choking If someone appears to have food lodged in their throat and is coughing, encourage them to continue coughing. Do not try to help by slapping their back. If they are coughing, that means that air is getting through. However, if the person shows signs of… [ Keep reading ]
Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced any time fossil fuels are burned. During a power outage, the use of gas generators or outdoor grills in carports or too close to the home can trap CO in the home and cause CO poisoning. Other possible sources of CO include small gasoline engines,… [ Keep reading ]
This month, we are promoting our multilingual fire safety videos to highlight four key fire safety messages. This week the topic is apartment fire evacuation. Evacuating a building during a fire emergency is not always the best option. Learn when to evacuate or shelter in place during a multi-residential building… [ Keep reading ]
Lately, we have been getting calls from concerned residents who are experiencing smoke alarms going off from something other than the usual known causes of smoke or steam. If this happens, there is a good chance that something else has triggered the smoke alarm such as a cob web or… [ Keep reading ]
Hot weather is expected in the Seattle area next week. Higher temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent becoming ill from too much heat. Too much heat and sun can overwhelm anyone but those most at risk from… [ Keep reading ]
In June, the Seattle Fire Department responded to 27 bark and brush-related fires. There were 74 bark and brush-related fire responses in June 2021. The cooler and wetter than usual summer weather has helped keep brush and bark fire responses lower. But as the temperatures begin to rise, we’ll most… [ Keep reading ]
