Tips

Have you ever wondered why firetrucks are often painted red? It’s because red paint was once the most affordable color for departments to purchase during the Great Depression! As time marched on and the nation’s financial situation improved, the red paint had become a recognizable symbol of fire protection for communities, so the color stuck around. Actually, black was the most affordable color during the time when motorized fire trucks starting to be produced (early 1900’s), red was one of the most expensive colors (there weren’t many). There were two reasons that red was used. 1) Almost every vehicle of that…

Calling 911 for our assistance is never casual and should be taken seriously. Here are some tips you should know before dialing 911: Dial 911 to report any incident requiring immediate dispatch of a fire truck or an ambulance, such as medical emergencies, fires, motor vehicle accidents, and more. If you’re placed on hold, please stay on the line! Calls are processed in the order they’re received. If you happen to dial 911 accidentally, don’t hang up! Dispatchers must call all phone numbers back and, if no contact is made, a police officer will be dispatched to your address to…

Daylight saving time is the perfect reminder to #Chirp — check your smoke alarms and replace the batteries if needed. A quick test could save lives! For more details, visit nfpa.org/smokealarms #daylightsaving

Emergency kits should contain: Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for both drinking and sanitation) Food (at least a several-day supply of nonperishable food) and a manual can opener Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio for weather and evacuation information Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries First-aid kit Dust masks, plastic sheeting, and duct tape to help filter contaminated air Soap, hand sanitizer, personal hygiene, and sanitation supplies Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities) and multitool for general use Sleeping bags or warm blankets Whistle (to signal for help) Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery Local…

Check your Fire Extinguishers & Smoke Alarms, they need to be replaced every 10 Years. Smoke Alarm Maintenance: Test monthly: Press the test button on your smoke alarm to ensure it sounds loudly.  Battery replacement: Change batteries at least once a year, even if the alarm isn't chirping, and use the recommended battery type.  Cleaning: Regularly vacuum or dust around the smoke alarm to remove debris that could interfere with its function.  Replacement: Replace the entire smoke alarm unit every 10 years, regardless of battery condition.  Listen for chirps: A chirping sound indicates a low battery and needs immediate attention.  Fire Extinguisher Maintenance: Visual inspection:…

Hello, Gwinnett! What you thought the term “Plug” meant? Believe it or not, there’s a strong chance you see plugs daily while commuting throughout Gwinnett County. A plug is simply slang for a fire hydrant! That’s it! Thank you for playing and we’ll see you in the comment section for #LearntheLingo!

Lithium-ion batteries can be dangerous if not used safely. To prevent fires, you can:  Store properly: Keep batteries away from heat, direct sunlight, and anything flammable. Store them in a cool, dry place. Use the correct charger: Use the charger that came with the device, or a third-party charger designed for the device. Avoid overcharging: Unplug devices once they are fully charged.  Monitor temperature: Stop using devices if they become too hot or swollen.  Handle with care: If a battery is damaged, swollen, or leaking, do not use it. Dispose properly: Recycle batteries at a local battery recycling location. Follow manufacturer instructions: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for charging,…

Prevent Garage fires! Thank you U.S. Fire Administration Store flammable items safely  Keep flammable liquids, like gasoline, paint, and solvents, in sealed containers Store flammable items away from heat sources and electrical appliances Consider using a flammable storage cabinet Store flammable liquids in a shed away from your home Keep the garage tidy Sweep the garage frequently, Keep the floor clear of clutter, and Tape down all cords and wires.  Install fire-safety features Install fire-rated drywall in your walls and ceiling  Replace the door separating your garage from your living quarters with a fire-resistant, self-closing door  Install a heat alarm or…

Prevent basement fires! Thank you U.S. Fire Administration Install alarms  Install a smoke alarm in your basement and test it monthly If you have a heating system that uses oil, gas, or wood, install a carbon monoxide alarm Keep flammable materials away from heat sources  Keep flammable materials at least three feet away from furnaces, water heaters, wood stoves, and other heat-generating equipment Close burner access doors on gas water heaters and gas furnaces Maintain your electrical system  Maintain easy access to your circuit breaker panel or fuse box Install arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) Plug major appliances directly into wall…