Published: February 24, 2007 12:46 am            

Fire safety — it’s about more than the victims

It seems as though every couple of weeks, we have experienced a fire in Clinton or the surrounding area. In fact, some days we’ve had incidents in which one fire is called in right on the heels of another.

One thing our reporters always note is the large number of people who stand at the scene to watch. Again it seems the larger the fire the larger the crowd. When you take into consideration the adrenaline of the crowd, the fear people feel in wondering if everyone got out and the movement of those who just want to get a better look, it’s easy to see how crowd control can be an issue.

We’re hoping that a story on page 1A of today’s Herald will equip people with the knowledge needed to behave correctly at the scene of a fire. And while we are at it, we think it also is a good time to remind people how to protect their families.

• Check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to be sure they are working properly. Have an escape plan with a meeting place. Once you exit your home, do not return. Too many people lose their lives going back into a burning home.

• Stoves are not made for heating homes. Supplemental heating devices should be used and maintained in accordance with manufacturer recommendations. Keep combustibles clear. Do not leave supplemental heating devices unattended.

• If candles are necessary, use them in a safe environment in a fireproof container and away from children. Do not leave them unattended. And for the long term, consider getting a residential fire sprinkler. According to statistics, the risk of death by fire is reduced by 82 percent when smoke detectors are accompanied with residential fire sprinklers.

• Finally, remember if you have a fire hydrant in your yard to keep it cleared and accessible for the fire department.

The bottom line is by using common sense at home to prevent fires, the need for people to behave at a scene becomes a moot point. No fire — no scene.

        

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