During the month of July 2023, the Seattle Fire Department responded to 298 brush and bark fires. This greatly exceeded the 113 brush and bark fire responses in July 2022. Warm and dry weather is forecasted through the month of August, increasing the risk for more brush fires. Fortunately, there are… [ Keep reading ]
In the past year, the Seattle Fire Department responded to 57 lithium-ion battery related fires. Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are commonly used in home electronics such as phones, laptop computers, tablets, e-scooters and other devices that require plug in charging. These batteries are small and powerful but when used incorrectly, they can overheat,… [ Keep reading ]
Leaving a small child or pet in a car alone is never a good idea. It’s especially dangerous on sunny days. It doesn’t have to be a hot day for the temperature inside of a car to reach high enough temperatures to cause heat stroke. Heat stroke can cause serious… [ Keep reading ]
Spring weather has finally arrived. This is the time of year when more outdoor grills are cleaned up and put to use. Whether using a grill on an apartment rooftop or in your backyard, consider these fire prevention and safety tips before lighting the grill. Most grill fires are preventable. Setting… [ Keep reading ]
In early March, a fire started in a Seattle home clothes dryer and caused over $10,000 in damages. Each year, 2,900 clothes dryer fires are reported in residential buildings in the U.S. Most dryer fires happen during the winter months. Failure to clean the lint is the leading factor contributing… [ Keep reading ]
Smoke alarms can reduce the risk of being injured by a home fire by alerting you that smoke is present and providing critical time to respond safely. Most fire deaths are caused by smoke inhalation, not burns. According to a 2020 study by the National Fire Protection Association, working smoke… [ Keep reading ]
There are many events and activities happening this year to celebrate Lunar New Year which begins on Sunday, January 22, 2023. But if your plans mean staying at home, keep these safety considerations in mind this Lunar New Year. Celebrations mean cooking and sharing food. Cooking-related fires remain the main… [ Keep reading ]
Make sure your smoke alarms will work if needed this holiday season. Smoke alarms can reduce the risk of being injured by a home fire by alerting you that smoke is present and providing critical time to respond safely. Most fire deaths are caused by smoke inhalation, not burns. According… [ Keep reading ]
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 ]
Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are commonly used in home electronics such as phones, laptop computers, tablets, e-scooters and other devices that require plug in charging. These batteries are small and powerful but when used incorrectly, they can overheat, catch fire, or explode. Fire agencies in King County continue to respond to fires caused by… [ Keep reading ]
