Also serving the communities of De Luz, Rainbow, Camp Pendleton, Pala and Pauma
Also serving the communities of De Luz, Rainbow, Camp Pendleton, Pala and Pauma
Camp Pendleton Fire and Emergency Services are reminding base residents to remember fire safety during the holiday season. To escape the chilling weather, Americans often spend more time inside their homes cooking or enjoying the company of their loved ones, increasing the chances of a fire occurring in the home.
Turkeys cooking and lit Christmas trees are evidence that winter has arrived. To escape the chilling weather, Americans often spend more time inside their homes cooking or enjoying the company of their loved ones.
While the holiday season is a joyous time, it is important to be safe while enjoying the festivities.
“Many don’t realize how the holidays can increase your chances of a fire,” said David D. Dietz, fire inspector, station 1, Camp Pendleton Fire and Emergency Services. “It’s always fire season on Camp Pendleton, we just want to remind base residents to be aware of the risks associated with holiday traditions.”
Dietz and other fire fighters have come together with a list of ways to stay safe this holiday season.
• Christmas trees: Avoiding a real tree can reduce the risk of a fire starting in your home. Real trees need water, and many forget to keep watering their tree, making it more likely that it will catch on fire. It is also recommended to keep the tree away from a fireplace.
• Candles: Every year candles cause more than 10,000 home fires, 5,000 of which take place in December.
• Electricity: Lights should have an Underwriters Laboratories label on them, which means it has been tested, guaranteeing it is environmentally safe. Make sure that the power is distributed evenly and that power strips aren’t overloaded.
• Cooking: There is a large danger in frying a frozen turkey – ensuring that your turkey is fully thawed and by not using excess oil can prevent a major fire. Ensure that someone is always in the kitchen when something is cooking on the stove or in the oven.
• Smoke detectors: Check your smoke detectors monthly, for proper function and ensure fresh batteries are inserted in the device.
“We want to make sure people enjoy themselves this holiday season,” said Bill P. Gick, fire inspector, station 1, Camp Pendleton Fire and Emergency Services. “Always have an escape plan for you and your family.”
For additional information, visit the Camp Pendleton website at http://www.pendleton.usmc.mil/information/fireinformation.asp, or call (760) 725-9045 or (866) 430-2764.
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