FROM THE FIRE CHIEF’S CORNER: SPRING FORWARD INTO SAFETY

Spring Into Safety!

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

March 8, 2021 (San Diego) -- March 14th is Daylight Saving Time. Setting the clock forward means it’s time to check the clock and move it forward one hour. But for a spring clean safety check, make your “hot lap” around the home, why not take a little extra time for a short safety checklist?

Did you know fires have significantly increased due to COVID and more people staying home?

Help spring your home into being safe and organized by following these steps:

Change the clocks, change the batteries. We do ask you to do this in the fall, however, you may check again. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors save lives. Firefighters recommend replacing smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries twice a year, so spring forward Sunday with fresh batteries all around.

Helpful hint: While they’re likely not fully charged, replaced batteries can still do duty in toys, media players or electronic devices. Get the last drop of juice out of them before you recycle!

How’s that home fire extinguisher? Has it gone past the expiration date? This is a good time to check your fire extinguisher.

Since you’ll have that stepladder out checking smoke detector batteries and clocks, double up on safety by checking for light bulbs and fixtures.Have you considered replacing conventional bulbs with energy-efficient compact fluorescent or LCD bulbs? Rumor has it, replacing standard bulbs with energy-efficient ones saves money. If you are not able to safely use a step ladder, contact a family member, friend or perhaps contacting your local fire department and ask for assistance.

Next, check the first-aid kit. It’s a good time to check your first aid kit and replace or upgrade any missing supplies.

Finally, this is a good time to review your family emergency plan. If an emergency strikes, will your family know what to do? Review your family’s emergency plan, or create one for the first time. Hold a meeting with family members to explain what to do and where to go in case of an emergency.

How about your earthquake preparedness supplies? Make sure you have them and they are up to date.

Update phone numbers, addresses and contact information, and post an emergency information page near the phone.

Your local fire department will be glad to help you with any of the above.

Be safe!

Note: The information in this article was compiled from various sources. These suggestions are not a complete list of every preventative or loss control measure. The information is not intended to replace additional safety manuals or the advice of another qualified professional(s). We make no guarantee of results from use of this information. We assume no liability in connection with the information nor the suggestions made.