Author: Venkata Sridhar Panchagnula

Cooking is the leading cause of home fires, and most of them start when food is left unattended. Firefighters remind residents: Stay in the kitchen while cooking Turn pot handles inward Keep flammable items away from the stove Keep children and pets away from cooking areas A few seconds of attention can prevent a lifetime of damage. Stay alert. Stay safe.

Candles can create a cozy atmosphere, but they are also a common cause of home fires.Firefighters recommend:• Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything flammable• Never leave candles unattended• Blow them out before leaving the room or going to sleep Want more simple ways to reduce fire risks at home? Download our Residential Fire Safety Plan today: GwinnettCounty.com/SafetyGuide Follow these essential safety tips to enjoy your candles responsibly: (1) Before You Light:Trim the Wick: Always trim wicks to 1/4 inch before lighting. This prevents high flames, excessive smoke, and soot buildup.Check the Surface: Place candles on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Avoid plastic or wood that…

Each tax filing season, scammers pose as IRS agents to trick residents into sharing personal information. By sharing this information, your life savings could be compromised. Avoid tax scams with these helpful tips:Choose tax preparers with caution and research before handing over your informationWatch for unsolicited emails, texts, and fake websites that might prompt you to click a link or share personal informationBe on alert for phone scams; IRS representatives will never demand payments over the phone or leave threatening messagesIf you suspect fraudulent tax activity, report it to the IRS. You can also report fraud or scams to the…

Many homeowners rely on septic systems to treat household wastewater. Septic systems separate solids in the tank and filter liquids through the drain field. When maintained, septic systems are effective and environmentally friendly. However, neglected systems can cause slow drains, gurgling toilets, or wet spots in the yard. A failing system may overflow, allowing raw sewage to reach nearby waterways and threaten public health. The best prevention is routine care: Pump your tank every three to five years Don’t pour fats, oils, and grease down drains Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste Learn more about protecting…