December 03, 2002
Tuesday - 12:30 am

The Ketchikan Fire Department, with the help of KPU Telecommunications, McDonald's, and Tongass Trading Company Inc., announced the creation of the "Free" smoke detector program. Smoke detectors are now available to anyone who needs and cannot afford one. Donations by KPU, McDonald's, and Tongass Trading helped make the "Free" smoke detector' program possible.

According to information provided by the Ketchikan Fire Department, every year thousands of Americans are killed by fires in their homes. Smoke alarms have helped reduce those numbers from nearly 12,000 per year in the late 60's to just over 4,000 in 2001. Information from the KFD said it's a proven fact: "Smoke alarms combined with aggressive fire prevention programs that stress escape plans, general fire safety, and "what to do in case of fire", have reduced fire deaths and injuries by two-thirds" in just 30 years.

With the help of Ketchikan businesses like McDonald's, Tongass Trading, and KPU, smoke detectors are now available "Free of Charge" to anyone who needs them. In a news release KFD said, Let's make this holiday season safe for ourselves and our loved-ones. Fire and EMS crews from the Ketchikan Fire Department will carry "Free Smoke Detectors" on the fire apparatus and ambulances or you can stop by Station-1 at 319 Main Street or Fire Station #2 at 3352 Tongass Avenue and ask for a "Free Smoke Detector".

Here are a few safety tips from the Ketchikan Fire Department to help make sure your family is safe this holiday season:

• In case of fire, we want you to "GET OUT" !!! Get out safely and "STAY OUT" !!!
• Make sure your loved ones know your escape plan in case you have a fire.
• Install and maintain your smoke alarms.
• Take a few minutes every month to vacuum your smoke alarms, test the batteries, and ensure they are in working condition.
• Know how to call for help if you have an emergency. The number in Ketchikan is "9-1-1"
• In rural areas more fires start in the chimney than in any other place in the home. Have your chimney or wood stove inspected and cleaned annually. The Ketchikan Fire Department has brushes and rods available to you at "NO CHARGE" to help you keep up on the maintenance of your chimney. Stop by and check them out at Station #1 (319 Main Street).
• Real Christmas trees need water to keep them from drying out. Needles falling off are signs of a potential fire hazard.
• Dispose of your used Christmas tree properly. Do not dispose of Christmas trees in your fireplace. This can cause a fire.
• Keep candles away from combustibles and children. Always extinguish candles at night. Burn candles only in approved containers.
• Do not overload extension cords. They can overheat and cause a fire.

The Ketchikan Fire Department wants you and your family to have a safe and happy holiday season. If you have questions regarding home or business fire safety, you can contact their fire prevention bureau at 225-5940.

Source of News Release:

Ketchikan Fire Department

 

Photo by Gigi Pilcher

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