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Ep. 38 BLOG: Enhancing Home Fire Safety: Insights from Lt. Patrick Crawford of Westlake Fire Department
In our ongoing effort to promote safety and preparedness, we recently had the opportunity to speak with Lieutenant Patrick Crawford of the City of Westlake Fire Department. Lt. Crawford’s extensive experience in emergency response provides invaluable insights into fire detection, smoke alarms, and overall residential fire safety. Today, we’ll discuss key takeaways from our discussion, focusing on practical steps homeowners can take to safeguard their families and homes and improving fire safety.
The Vital Role of Smoke Alarms and Fire Safety
One of the central points emphasized by Lt. Crawford was the importance of smoke alarms. A working smoke alarm is crucial in reducing the risk of death from a home fire. According to statistics, having a functional smoke alarm can cut the risk of dying in a fire by 55%. These devices are the first line of defense in alerting occupants to a fire and giving them precious time to evacuate.
There are primarily two types of smoke alarms: photoelectric and ionization. Both types are effective, though they work differently. Photoelectric alarms detect smoke using a light sensor, while ionization alarms use a small amount of radioactive material to detect changes in ionization in the air. Regardless of the type, it is essential to have smoke alarms installed in key locations throughout the home.
Modern smoke alarms often come with a sealed 10-year battery, which eliminates the need for frequent battery changes. Lt. Crawford highlighted that these units require only monthly testing to ensure they are operational, making maintenance more manageable and reducing the risk of alarm failure due to dead batteries.
For older homes that may not have hardwired smoke alarms, Lt. Crawford recommends using wireless interconnected alarms. These alarms communicate with each other, so if one sounds, all alarms in the house will sound. This interconnected system is particularly beneficial in larger homes where a single alarm might not be heard in every room.
Integrating Carbon Monoxide Detection and Fire Safety
In addition to smoke alarms, carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are an essential component of home safety. CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled in large quantities. Lt. Crawford advises homeowners to have at least one CO detector in the home’s sleeping areas, while another should be in the vicinity of utility areas such as gas furnaces. While some smoke alarms come with integrated CO detection, standalone CO detectors are also a good option. It’s important to note that CO detectors generally have a shorter lifespan than smoke alarms, typically around seven years, compared to the 10-year lifespan of smoke alarms. Thus, if you use a combined smoke and CO detector, be aware of the differing replacement timelines.
Other Considerations in Fire Safety
Heat or “rate-of-rise” detection is often utilized in garages, in order to avoid dust interference risks with standard smoke detectors. Such systems would need to provide notification inside the house, however. Be sure to learn more about them and explore such options for garage use. Additionally, avoid charging Lithium-ion batteries overnight in unattended areas, especially where no early warning smoke or fire detection and alarm systems exist.
Preparing Children for Emergencies and Fire Safety
Educating children about fire and life safety is crucial. Lt. Crawford stresses the importance of teaching children to sleep with their doors closed. Closed doors can significantly slow the spread of fire and smoke, giving occupants more time to escape. In the event of a fire, children should be taught to feel the door before opening it; if the door is hot, they should use an alternative escape route and signal for help through a window if necessary.
Creating and practicing a fire escape plan is also vital. Ensure that every family member knows at least two ways to exit each are or room within the home. This might include installing emergency escape ladders for bedrooms on higher floors, although Lt. Crawford notes that not all families take this step. These steps are critical in improving fire safety
Additional Preparedness for Natural Disasters and other Fire Safety Concerns
Recent events, such as the tornadoes that hit the Greater Cleveland area, underscore the need for comprehensive emergency preparedness. Lt. Crawford shared insights from their city’s response to these storms, emphasizing the importance of readiness not just for fires, but for other emergencies like severe weather.
After a major event like a tornado, it’s crucial to have supplies on hand, including fresh water, non-perishable food, and emergency lighting. Generators can be a lifeline during power outages, but they must be used safely. Generators should always be placed at least 20 feet away from the home with exhaust directed away from windows and doors to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. CO detection and alarms should also be employed. Carbon monoxide emission rates of portable generators can be hundreds of times greater than the CO emission rates on automobiles. According to the CPSC there were at least 1,332 CO-related consumer deaths involving portable generators between 2004 and 2021 (74 annually on average). There are also UL 2201 and ANSI portable generator carbon monoxide standards available to learn about and review. These standards limit the amount of carbon monoxide that such systems can generate.
Additionally, ensuring that phone batteries are charged and having a plan for safe lighting options, such as battery-operated lamps, can help avoid ignition and fire hazards associated with candles.
Conclusion of at Home Fire Safety
Fire safety and emergency preparedness are critical components of home safety. By installing and maintaining working smoke and CO alarms, educating family members about fire safety, and being prepared for a range of emergencies, homeowners can significantly reduce the risks associated with fires and other disasters.
Lt. Patrick Crawford’s insights remind us that while the fire department is always ready to respond to emergencies, much of our safety relies on proactive measures taken by homeowners. Whether you’re installing new alarms, updating old ones, or simply practicing fire drills with your family, these actions play a vital role in ensuring your home remains a safe haven.
As we continue to explore topics related to safety and preparedness, remember that being informed and prepared is the best defense against emergencies. Stay safe, stay vigilant, and take these steps to protect your home and loved ones.
Thank you to Lt. Patrick Crawford and the City of Westlake, Ohio Fire Department and to Dave Tabar with the Mighty Line Minute podcast for sharing their expertise, and to our readers, for prioritizing safety in their homes. We hope you found these tips valuable, and that they help you create a safer living environment.
Until next time, take care, stay safe, stay educated, and be prepared with these fire safety notes.
Have a Mighty Day
- Dave
by Alec Goecke
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References
https://www.cityofwestlake.org/179/Fire
https://mightylinetape.com/pages/search-results-page?q=Fire
