Practice Prevention Throughout Autumn

There’s something about the chill of autumn that makes us think about bonfires, haunted houses and corn mazes. While warming up by an outdoor fire is appealing, it’s important to remember that dry leaves and grass increase fire danger from flying sparks or inattention — and that can lead to disaster. October is fire safety month and a reminder to employ fire prevention best practices throughout your agency.  

“Few things are as insidious as a fire,” says Mary Pedersen, PDRMA Risk Management Consultant. “You might not even think of the possible danger of parking your car over a pile of dead leaves. But the heat from the catalytic converter or exhaust system could ignite those leaves quite easily.”

Fire dangers aren’t only outside, either. Regular inspections of your agency’s electrical equipment, fire extinguishers and smoke alarm systems can identify issues before they become problems. Having fire drills and reviewing emergency plans keep staff informed and ready to respond; employees know how to exit buildings and where to meet once outside should the need arise. 

An essential best practice for fire prevention comes down to risk management fundamentals. “Regular housekeeping and maintenance practices are a front-line defense,” adds Pedersen. “Be sure your agency stores flammable liquids properly and be careful how and where you store flammable materials like cardboard boxes, event banners or seasonal decorations. Keep equipment and water pipe maintenance on point to prevent the dangers of overheating or frozen pipes bursting.”

Infrared scanning can help make sure your electrical equipment doesn’t have any hot spots to address. Talk to your PDRMA Risk Management Consultant for more information about a $200 one-time subsidy for such a scan.

PDRMA Resources:

• Video — Protecting Your Property from Fire.
• Video — Fire Extinguisher Safety Training. 
• LRN #119 — Monthly Building Fire and Property Conservation Inspection Checklist.
• LRN #156 — Fire Equipment Self-inspection Program.
• LRN #1502 — Know Your Fire Extinguishers.
• LRN #1503 — What to Do When a Fire Is Discovered.
• LRN #1505 — Rules of Fire Fighting.
• LRN #1606 — Fire Detection Systems.
• LRN #1617 — Infrared Scanning Services.
• Class — Fighting the Fire Before It Starts — Dec. 5, Huntley Park District.