firewise 2

What does your fire department need? The only real way to know is to ask. Trained firefighters and EMTs are only a small part of our needs. Firefighting is a strenuous and dangerous activity. If you are physically incapable of, or unwilling to fight fires, there are many other vital manpower needs. Departments have administrative, fundraising and support staff needs. Rarely is any offer of help turned down. More help means a department’s performance improves. This reduces your insurance rating and saves you money. Your assistance will be welcome.

Safety When Burning:

·	Never leave a fire unattended.

·	Provide a clear firebreak around all fires. (Firebreak: Areas cleared of all burnable materials. Usually 20’ for trash and small brush piles.)

·	Have, at the burn site, a charged (pressurized w/ air purged) water hose on standby.

·	Keep firefighting hand tools (rakes, shovels, flappers, etc.) nearby.

·	Burning during the morning, when there is dew on the ground and the humidity is high, is usually better than in the afternoon.

·	Do not burn in windy conditions, or if the wind may come up before the fire is out cold.

·	Always check with local fire department for restrictions.

·	When burning off large piles or acreage, it is recommended to notify the fire department. PERMITS MAY BE REQUIRED. Knowing of a control burn in progress will prevent an unnecessary response by emergency personnel and equipment.

·	Fires, other than very small fires, should have extra manpower on standby and in the immediate vicinity. Circumstances can change rapidly and exponentially increase the danger.

·	Keep a phone handy in the event you lose control.

When working near a fire, wear proper clothing. Long sleeve shirt and long pants made with natural fibers of nonflammable or fire retardant clothing will allow you to work more safely around a fire. Warning: Do not work near a fire wearing man-made materials that will burn or melt. Safety glasses are a must.