4th of July Fire and Life Safety Info
From the Fallston Volunteer Fire and Ambulance Co.:
Now that we are into the summer season, State Fire Marshal Brian S. Geraci is suggesting that all citizens use proper fire and life safety practices when choosing how to enjoy the outdoors. For the upcoming 4th of July, attend only approved public fireworks displays. “I would highly suggest the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend one of the many public fireworks displays throughout the state.” stated Geraci. To help our citizens enjoy a safer summer season, the State Fire Marshal offers several ways to enjoy fireworks while avoiding injury:
– Consider only attending the public fireworks displays scheduled throughout the area this year. Leave fireworks to the professionals. Check the Maryland State Fire Marshal website at: www.mdsp.org/firemarshal for listed public fireworks displays throughout the state.
For those individuals who insist on the use of legal consumer fireworks:
– Purchase the fireworks in the location where you intend to discharge them. Check with the local municipality to determine what fireworks are considered legal for use in that area.
– Read and follow label warnings and instructions.
– Do not allow small children to use fireworks.
– Do not consume alcoholic beverages while using fireworks.
– Have a bucket of water or hose available
– Fully extinguish remains of fireworks in water before disposal.
“Fireworks have been a long tradition of the 4th of July holiday celebrations. Please make safety your number one priority so everyone can enjoy the holiday season.” adds the State Fire Marshal. “By acting responsibly, we can help eliminate fireworks injuries in Maryland.”
In addition, be sure to follow all safety procedures when entertaining family and friends this summer. Grilling safety is a priority. Remember to NEVER grille on a porch or balcony! Grilles should only be used 15 feet or more from any structure. You must be sure that there are no overhead obstructions when grilling to eliminate the chance of unintended ignition of structures or trees. And always dispose of ashes in a metal container, never place them in a combustible container or within a structure awaiting disposal.
For additional fire and life safety information check out www.nfpa.org ,www.fvfac.org/news/fullstory/newsid/208071 , and www.facebook.com/MarylandStateFireMarshal.
Department of Emergency Services Offers Summer Safety Tips
From Harford County government:
Summer, the season of the year that many people enjoy the most, is also filled with dangerous weather conditions and safety concerns. Heat emergencies and recreational water accidents are hazards the fire service and emergency responders are too often called upon to answer this time of year.
Temperatures in Maryland during the summer months can often exceed 90 degrees and may result in heat related illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Heat illnesses are normally preventable by taking necessary precautions in hot weather. Children, the elderly and individuals with obesity in general are particularly at risk of developing heat illness.
Common causes of heat emergencies include high temperature and humidity, dehydration, prolonged or excessive exercise, excess clothing during hot days and excessive alcohol use among others. Early symptoms of heat related illnesses include profuse sweating, fatigue, thirst, and muscle cramps. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, dizziness, weakness and light-headedness, vomiting, and cool moist skin. Some indicators of a person suffering from heat stroke include fever over 104 degrees, irrational behavior, extreme confusion, dry hot red skin, rapid shallow breathing, rapid weak pulse, seizures and unconsciousness.
Individuals exhibiting any of the symptoms for heat stroke, especially the elderly and those with health issues, should receive immediate medical attention.
During the long, hot days of summer, a great deal of time is spent in the water, cooling off and relaxing. It is always important to put safety first, no matter which recreational water activity one might participate.
A major problem related to recreational water activities is drowning. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports each day approximately 10 people die from drowning. Of these deaths, two are children aged 14 or younger. Additionally, drowning ranks fifth among the leading causes of unintentional injury or deaths in the United States.
The following are some safety suggestions to consider before entering water for a swim:
– Learn to swim and always swim with a “buddy”
– Swim only in areas supervised by a lifeguard
– Children and those who are inexperienced swimmers should wear personal floatation device (PFD) when around water
– Watch for the dangerous “too’s”, too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun
– Learn CPR. Knowing this skill can save a life for those in water
– Make sure someone is always watching young children in and around pool areas. Maintain constant visual contact with children in a pool or pool area
“Summer is always an exciting time of year with a great deal to see and do,” said Russell J. Strickland, Director of the Department of Emergency Services. “However, summer also poses numerous health and safety related hazards for which we all should be prepared”, Strickland added.
For additional information regarding heat related health issues and preventive measures, visit the Harford County Health Department website at www.harfordcountyhealth.com or the Harford County Department of Emergency Services at www.harfordpublicsafety.org.
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