SPRING CLEANING SHOULD INCLUDE SAFETY CHECKS

Spring is here and it's time to put away the snow shovels and prepare for your favorite spring activities, like barbecue, outdoor sporting events, yard work, and everyone's favorite - spring cleaning. While cleaning out the unwanted items, it is a good time to check your homes for unsafe conditions and to ensure your families are safe fro potential fire hazards. Here are a few fire safety tips to help you perform your annual spring cleaning:

*      Check for and correct frayed or damaged extension cords and wiring on all appliances.

*      Vacuum and clean behind large furniture and appliances.

*      Clean smoke detectors. Lightly run a vacuum over your smoke detectors and change the batteries to ensure proper operation in the event of an emergency.

*      Barbecue grills: Place grills at least 15 feet from buildings and overhangs. Store your charcoal in a dry, cool location. Be sure to thoroughly inspect your grill before use. Grills are a favorite winter hiding place for critters.

*      Recycle: Get rid of old newspapers, magazines and junk mail. These items tend to pile up and can greatly contribute to the severity and spread of fire.

*      Remove leaves and trash from carports and garages. Combustible materials are dangerous if they are exposed to heated automobile components, especially under the vehicle.

*      Properly store flammable liquids and home chemicals. Make sure gasoline and home chemicals are well-marked and out of the reach of children and pets. All flammables, i.e. gasoline, should be stored in a cool, dry place outside the house or work area.

*      Plan your escape. This is a good time to sit down with your family or co-workers and discuss what to do in the event of a fire and identify your meeting place outside the house or work area.

*      Spring cleanup should also apply to the kitchen. Unattended cooking fires are still the most common cause of residential fires across the United States.

*      Clean your oven. Oven fires occur when oil and grease deposits are overheated and ignite.

*      Clean the cooking surface of your stove; grease and food crumbs can quickly ignite.

*      Keep combustible items, such as oven mitts, towels, wooden utensils and paper towels, off the top of the stove.

*      Plug cooking appliances directly into wall outlets. Do not use extension cords or surge protectors with cooking appliances.

*      Ensure a safety area for children and pets around the stove or areas where hot foods are prepared or served. Rule of thumb - keep a 3-foot clearance.

*      Do not leave the kitchen when you are cooking, period. If you leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.

*      When baking or roasting, check the oven regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you to check the oven while cooking.

We hope these tips will help get you started toward a safe and enjoyable spring season. If you have any questions or concerns, please call the Union Township Fire Department at 528-4446.