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 ]
Did you know that keeping a door closed in a fire can slow the spread of fire, reduce toxic smoke levels and keep temperatures significantly lower? Keeping doors closed can give a person more time to escape the fire and smoke. For those reasons, the Seattle Fire Department recommends installing… [ Keep reading ]
This is the time of year when rooftop use and rooftop fires are highest. Please be mindful this summer when using rooftop grills, heaters and other amenities. Improperly discarded smoking materials and grilling are two of the main causes for fires on rooftops. Both are preventable. Smoking on rooftops Even… [ Keep reading ]
Being situated in a place surrounded by water means that sometimes the Seattle Fire Department has to respond to emergencies in lakes, rivers and the sea. Water rescues can be tricky, especially when a person in need goes under water before help arrives. Beachgoers and boaters can assist firefighters greatly… [ Keep reading ]
This part of the state has been spared from the wildfire smoke and unhealthy air quality that accompanies it so far this year. However, dry conditions in eastern Washington will most likely create conditions for more wildfires this summer. Even though the air quality is currently healthy here, it’s a… [ Keep reading ]
May is one of the top months for grill fires. Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer. This is the time of year when more outdoor grills are dusted off and put to use. Whether using a grill on an apartment rooftop or in your backyard, consider these fire… [ Keep reading ]
May is National Water Safety Month and this week the Seattle Fire Department would like to encourage community members to wear a life jacket when out on the water. Most drownings are preventable. Even a strong swimmer can become overwhelmed by the cold waters in our area and lose the… [ Keep reading ]
We are happy to share a series of fire and life safety videos in several languages. They were developed over the past two years in partnership with the King County Fire and Life Safety Association. These videos include transcripts and were produced in American Sign Language and in the most… [ Keep reading ]
