DID YOU KNOW:
64,100 - Estimated home structure fires due to heating
540 - Estimated civilian fire deaths due to heating
1,400 - Estimated civilian fire injuries due to heating
$943 million - Estimated direct property damage due to heating fires
16% - Of all home fires were heating fires (second behind cooking)
3 out of 4 - Civilians killed in home heating fires died in fires that involved (stationary or portable) space heaters
1/2 - Of home heating fires occurred in December, January, and February
Source: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
POPULAR SITE LINKS
SKF&R Facebook
Winter Newsletter
Budget
Calendar of Events
WA Health Dept
King County Health Services
|
|
| Focus on Fire Safety: Heating Fire Safety | The high cost of home heating fuels and utilities has caused many Americans to search for alternative home heating sources such as wood burning stoves, space heaters, and fireplaces. Heating is one of the leading causes of residential fires. Over one-quarter of these fires result from improper maintenance of equipment, specifically the failure to clean the equipment.
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is another danger when using heating equipment fueled by fossil fuel. It occurs most often when equipment is not vented properly. CO deaths have been on the rise since 1999. On avera... Read More | | Preventing Home Heating Fires |  In 2003-2006, the leading factor contributing to home heating fires (28%) and deaths (46%) was heating equipment too close to things that can burn, such as upholstered furniture, clothing, mattress, or bedding (Source: NFPA).
Many heating fires can be prevented by following basic safety tips when dealing with any heating equipment:
Keep or maintain a 3 foot clearance between all heating equipment and anything that can burn.
Inspect and maintain heating equipment regularly for safety.
Be sure to have fixed space heaters installed by a qualified... Read More | | Carbon Monoxide Safety | Each year unintentional carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning claims hundreds of lives and sends several thousands of people to the emergency room for treatment. At lower levels of exposure, CO causes mild effects that are often mistaken for the flu. These symptoms include headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea, and fatigue. The effects of CO exposure can vary greatly from person to person depending on age, overall health, and the concentration and length of exposure.
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless and toxic gas. Because it is impossible to see, taste, or smell th... Read More | | Learn About Fire Escape Plans |  In the event of a fire, remember that every second counts, so you and your family must always be prepared. Escape plans help you get out of your home quickly. In less than 30 seconds, a small flame can get completely out of control and turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for a house to fill with thick black smoke and become engulfed in flames.
Prepare and practice your fire escape plan twice a year with everyone in your household, including children and people with disabilities. It's also a good idea to practice your plan with overnight guests. Some tips to consider when... Read More |
|
|
| Upcoming events |
Calendar
|
 |
| Thank You for your Inspiring Generosity! |
The Annual Community Food and Toy Drive for Des Moines and Federal Way was an outstanding success thanks to the overwhelming generosity of the citizens of Des Moines, Federal Way, and Unincorporated South King County.
The Annual Food and Toy Drive delivered food and toys to 130 families and approximately 500 children on Thursday December 22nd. Each family received toys for the children, food for a holiday dinner, and nearly a weeks worth of groceries. The families sponsored by the Annual Food and Toy Drive are recommended for assistance by local elementary schools.
The Annual Food and Toy Drive Committee is comprised of more than just the local fire department. Past sponsors and volunteers include many local service clubs such as the Federal Way Noon Lions and Kiwanis Clubs, the Greater Federal Way Kiwanis, Federal Way Rotary Club, Gais Bakery, Federal Way Elementary and High Schools, Highline Elementary Schools, Twin Cedars Mobile Home Park, South King Fire & Rescue Firefighters Foundation, Des Moines Lions and Rotary Clubs, Des Moines Masons, Score Board Pub, Winco, Wal-Mart, Baden Sports, and the exceptional generosity of the citizens of Des Moines, Federal Way and unincorporated South King County. Each year they commit time, money, food, gifts, energy or other resources to the Annual Drive. In addition there are many, many unnamed individuals who donate their time, food, gifts, and money to this worthy program.
All donations received by the Annual Food and Toy Drive went to the community. What was not given to the sponsored families was donated to the Des Moines Pregnancy Assistance Program, several local churches, Gig Harbor Fire Department and some additional families who were recommended to the program.
The Annual Community Food & Toy Drive started in the 1960s with Fire Chief Bill Smith of then King County Fire District #22 (Steele Lake area) and local community service clubs. When the program first started they were able to help about 25 families. Since that time, thanks to the continuing assistance and generosity of local service clubs, private businesses, neighborhood groups and the community members, the program has grown. Thanks to the communitys continuing support and inspiring generosity, we were able to help the more families this year than ever before.
|
|
