Tips

Candles can make your home feel warm and welcoming — but they’re also one of the leading causes of home fires this time of year.Before you light your favorite fall scent, remember:• Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything that can burn.• Never leave a burning candle unattended or near pets and children.• Blow them out before bed or when you leave the room.• Try battery-powered candles for a safer glow.This fall, let’s keep the glow — not the flames.Like this post if you have completed today’s safety check. For more safety tips, visit: GwinnettSafety411.com.

Have a Spook-tacular (and Safe!) Halloween!The Gwinnett Citizens Fire Academy Alumni Association reminds everyone to keep safety in mind while celebrating this Halloween season: Be Seen: Add reflective tape or glow sticks to costumes and trick-or-treat bags. Stay Flame-Free: Choose flame-resistant costumes and keep away from open flames or candles. Walk Safely: Cross at corners, use sidewalks, and stay alert for vehicles. Check Treats: Inspect all candy before eating—only enjoy factory-sealed treats. Light the Way: If you’re handing out candy, keep your porch well-lit and walkways clear.Have a frightfully fun night filled with treats, not tricks!

For trick-or-treaters :  Stay visible. Wear costumes with reflective tape or stickers, use light-colored costumes, and carry a flashlight or glow stick. Opt for makeup over masks. Masks can obstruct vision and breathing. If a mask is worn, ensure the eye and mouth openings are large enough. Check costumes for fit. Avoid oversized shoes or costumes that drag on the ground to prevent trips and falls. Pick safe props. Any costume accessories, such as swords or canes, should be made of soft, flexible material with no sharp edges. Go in a group. Walk with a trusted adult or in a group. Older children should set…

Did You Know?In a home fire, temperatures can reach over 1,000°F at eye level — hot enough to melt metals. But near the floor, it can be hundreds of degrees cooler. Always remember “when smoke starts to show, stay down low and go.” Staying low gives you precious seconds to escape safely when fire strikes. Talk to your family this weekend about practicing a fire drill, and make sure everyone knows to crawl under the smoke.

Not all fires start in the kitchen or from heaters; some begin in the trash.The National Fire Protection Agency identifies improperly discarded cigarettes, matches, and fireplace ashes as the cause of close to 10,000 home fires every year across the U.S.Here are three quick ways to prevent it: • Always place in a metal container with water. Keep it outside, away from decks or porches. • Use deep, sturdy ashtrays. Never toss butts in plant pots, mulch, or grass. • Make sure they are fully out before discarding. These simple steps keep fire where it belongs — in your fireplace…

An early morning house fire in Norcross sent two family members to the hospital after flames spread quickly through their home. Firefighters faced additional challenges when security bars blocked windows and doors, delaying escape. This incident shines a light on the importance of being prepared before an emergency happens. During Fire Prevention Month, we encourage every household to: Test smoke alarms monthly to ensure they’re working Close the door to your bedroom before going to sleep at night Practice a home escape plan so all family members know two ways out of every room Have a fire escape ladder available for rooms…

Spending more time indoors and in close contact with people is one reason for the increase spread of viruses during the fall and winter. The cooler, drier air also makes it easier for respiratory viruses, like the common cold and flu, to replicate, according to the National Library of Medicine. That’s why handwashing is so important to prevent the spread of germs and viruses. Our medical directors Dr. Patrick McDougal and Dr. Neha Verma discuss why proper hygiene is important in limiting the spread of the cold and flu. Watch Video : https://vimeo.com/1122295799?share=copy