With the start of daylight saving time this weekend (2 a.m. Sunday, March 14), make sure you replace smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarm batteries and test the alarms. The Seattle Fire Department recommends replacing batteries yearly or as needed. Changing smoke and CO alarm batteries at least once a year… [ Keep reading ]
Anytime a major fire or other disaster displaces people from their home, the Red Cross shows up to provide assistance and find shelter. We often hear about the work of the Red Cross during major disasters such as major hurricanes and earthquakes but they are working every day to support… [ Keep reading ]
The Seattle Fire Department responded to two home fires this week that involved overloaded power sources and caused significant property damage. Overloaded outlets and the misuse of extension cords are common electrical issues that can cause a home fire. Extension cords are designed to provide a temporary power source and… [ Keep reading ]
Are you prepared to help in a medical emergency if someone goes into cardiac arrest? A cardiac patient’s chance of becoming a long-term survivor are more than doubled if a bystander on the scene administers prompt CPR. Administering hands-only CPR (without breaths) is a simple technique that only takes a… [ Keep reading ]
February is Heart Month and this week we are highlighting stroke awareness. Did you know that stroke is a leading cause of death in the United States and is a major cause of serious disability for adults? According to the CDC, about 795,000 people in the United States have a stroke each… [ Keep reading ]
February 7-13, 2021 is National Burn Awareness Week and is sponsored by the American Burn Association. The theme for this year is electrical burns. Here are a few safety tips to prevent injuries at home. More tips from the American Burn Association on electrical safety. More Information: Electrical Safety from… [ Keep reading ]
Every year, the Seattle Fire Department responds to hundreds of cooking-related fires. With more people cooking at home because of the pandemic, the concern for cooking fires is elevated. Cooking fires remain the main cause of home fires in the U.S. To help try to reduce cooking-related fires, the Seattle… [ Keep reading ]
In the Pacific Northwest, winter storms are unpredictable and can lead to power outages. Staying warm and cooking food during a power outage shouldn’t put you at risk. Burning gas, wood or charcoal inside your home will increase your risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. It is an invisible, odorless gas… [ Keep reading ]
As the pandemic continues into winter, more people are finding ways to socialize safely outside and seeking ways to stay warm while doing so. Outdoor fire pits, outdoor gas and electric portable heaters are being used in greater numbers. In addition to taking Covid-19 precautions, consider the potential risks associated… [ Keep reading ]
While Thanksgiving gatherings will be smaller this year, being safe in the kitchen will be just as important. Thanksgiving is the leading day for home cooking-related fires in the U.S. How to be safe in the kitchen Check on food regularly while cooking – unattended cooking is the number one… [ Keep reading ]
