Fort Campbell Fire Prevention Newsletter Fall-Holiday Edition 2011
Content
FALL EDITION, 2011
Holiday/Seasonal Fire Prevention
The United States Fire Ad1747 Kentucky Ave ministration (USFA) and Fort Campbell KY, 42223 the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) are working together to remind Phone: 270-798-7171 everyone that home fires Fax: 270-956-3210 are more prevalent in winter than in any other seawww.facebook.com/ son. This is due in part to fortcampbellfireprevention an increase in cooking and www.campbell.army.mil/fcfd heating fires. Holiday decorations and winter storms For Emergencies call: that can interrupt electrical 911 service and cause people to turn to alternative heating sources also contribute Inside This Issue to the increased risk of fire Holiday/Seasonal 1 in winter. What Time Is It? 1 Cooking Fire Safety Holiday/Seasonal cont 2 It's a recipe for serious inBurning Issues 3 jury or even death to wear loose clothing (especially Recalls 4 hanging sleeves), walk Thanksgiving Safety 6 away from a cooking pot on the stove, or leave flamTurkey Fryers 6 mable materials, such as Extinguisher Training 7 potholders or paper towels, Contact Information 7 around the stove. Whether you are cooking the family holiday dinner or a snack for the children, practicing safe cooking behaviors will help keep you and your family safe. Selecting a Tree for the Holidays Needles on fresh trees should be green and hard to pull back from the branches, and the needles should not break if the tree has been freshly cut. The trunk should be sticky to the touch. Old trees can be identified by bouncing the tree trunk on the ground. If many needles fall off, the tree has been cut too long and, has probably dried out, and is a fire hazard. Caring for Your Tree Do not place your tree close to a heat source, inCont pg 2 cluding a fireplace or heat vent. The heat will dry out the tree, causing it to be more easily ignited by heat, flame or sparks. Be careful not to drop or flick cigarette ashes near a tree. Do not put your live tree up too early or leave it up for longer than two weeks. Keep the tree stand filled with water at all times. Disposing of Your Tree Never put tree branches or needles in a fireplace or wood-burning stove. When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly. The best way to dispose of your tree is by taking it to a recycling center or having it hauled away by a community pickup service.
What Time Is It?
Smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector batteries need to be changed at least once a year. So when you change your clock back on November 6, remember to check the batteries too. And once you’ve changed the batteries, be sure to test the alarms. This simple act cuts the risk of dying in a home fire in half. A life saving reminder to change your clock change your battery from the Fort Campbell Fire Department, Campbell Crossing, and the International Association of Fire Chiefs. ANY ISSUES WITH THE PROPER OPERATION OF THE DETECTORS PLEASE CONTACT : On Post Housing: 931-431-3966 On Post Facilities: 798-1200
Page 2
Holiday/Seasonal Fire Prevention
Maintain Your Holiday Lights Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up. Use only lighting listed by an approved testing laboratory. Do Not Overload Electrical Outlets Do not link more than three light strands, unless the directions indicate it is safe. Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet. Make sure to periodically check the wires – they should not be warm to the touch. Do not leave holiday lights on unattended! Use Only Nonflammable Decorations All decorations should be nonflammable or flame-retardant and placed away from heat vents. If you are using a metallic or artificial tree, make sure it is flame retardant. Don't Block Exits Ensure that trees and other holiday decorations do not block an exit way. In the event of a fire, time is of the essence. A blocked entry/exit way puts you and your family at risk. Never Put Wrapping Paper in the Fireplace Wrapping paper in the fireplace can result in a very large fire, throwing off dangerous sparks and embers that may result in a chimney fire. Avoid Using Lit Candles If you do use lit candles, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked down. Never leave the house with candles burning. Never Put Lit Candles on a Tree Do not go near a Christmas tree with an open flame – candles, lighters or matches. Check Your Hotspots Each year fire claims the lives of 3,500 Americans, injures 18,300, and causes billions of dollars worth of damage. People living in rural areas are more than twice as likely to die in a fire than those living in mid-sized cities or suburban areas. The misuse of wood stoves, portable space heaters and kerosene heaters are especially common risks in rural areas. The United States Fire Administration (USFA) believes rural fire problems can be reduced by teaching people to recognize the hazards. By following some of the outlined precautionary steps, individuals can greatly reduce their chances of becoming a fire casualty. Wood Stoves Wood stoves cause over 4,000 residential fires every year. Carefully follow the manufacturer's installation and maintenance instructions. Look for solid construction, such as plate steel or cast iron metal. Check for cracks and inspect legs, hinges and door seals for smooth joints and seams. Use only seasoned wood for fuel, not green wood, artificial logs, or trash. Inspect and clean your pipes and chimneys annually and check monthly for damage or obstructions. Be sure to keep combustible objects at least three feet away from your wood stove. Electric Space Heaters Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Check to make sure it has a thermostat control mechanism, and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over. Heaters are not dryers or tables; don't dry clothes or store objects on top of your heater. Space heaters need space; keep combustibles at least three feet away from each heater. Always unplug your electric space heater when not in use. Kerosene Heaters Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), and check with your local fire department on the legality of kerosene heater use in your community. Never fill your heater with gasoline or camp stove fuel; both flare-up easily. Only use crystal clear K-1 kerosene. Never overfill any portable heater. Use the kerosene heater in a well ventilated room. Fireplaces Fireplaces regularly build up creosote in their chimneys. They need to be cleaned out frequently and chimneys should be inspected for obstructions and cracks to prevent deadly chimney and roof fires. Check to make sure the damper is open before starting any fire. Never burn trash, paper or green wood in your fireplace. These materials cause heavy creosote buildup and are difficult to control. Use a screen heavy enough to stop rolling logs and big enough to cover the entire opening of the fireplace to catch flying sparks. Don't wear loosefitting clothes near any open flame. Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the house or going to bed. Store cooled ashes in a tightly sealed metal container outside the home. Finally, having a working smoke alarm dramatically increases your chances of surviving a fire. And remember to practice a home escape plan frequently with your family.
Page 3
BURNING ISSUES
Space Heaters
With cooler weather approaching the workforce should remember space heaters are for temporary use only. Space heaters are not authorized at the organization level except for emergencies such as no heat and are generally prohibited for energy conservation purposes IAW CAM Reg 420-5, however when permitted approval by DPW shall be required. Space heater use is on case by case bases. Space heaters are not substitutes for central heating, nor are they designed for extended use. Occupants should dress appropriately for the cooler conditions. Do and Don’ts Safety Tips if Space Heaters are used: Do select a space heater that is rated by the manufacturer for the size space you intend to heat. Do make sure the heating equipment has the label showing that it is listed by a recognized testing laboratory (UL). Do plug heater into outlets with sufficient capacity and never into an extension cord. Do use heater on the floor. Do kept at least 36 inches from any combustible materials such a furniture and paper. Do check for fraying or splitting wires, or overheating. Have problems repaired by a professional before operating the space heater. Don’t position heaters near water or where there is danger of water being spilled, to avoid serious risk of electric shock. Don’t hide cords under rugs or carpets. Placing anything on top of a cord could cause it to overheat, and can cause fire. Don’t ever place heaters on furniture, since they may fall, dislodging or breaking parts in the heater, which could result in a fire or shock hazard. Don’t leave space heaters operating when you are not in the room. Don’t put drying clothing or combustibles over heaters.
The Burning of Classified Materials
We have had a rash of dumpster fires, 14 in the last 6 months, caused by the Soldiers burning classified materials in trash cans and then dumping it in the dumpster. The burning of classified materials is prohibited IAW CAM REG 420-24, 8-12. To destroy classified materials make an appointment with G2, DPTMS Chief, Security & Intelligence Division, 798-2425. No open fires shall be permitted on the installation at any time without the express approval and permission of the Fire Chief or designated representatives.
Page 4
Carbon monoxide
Although the popularity of carbon monoxide (CO) alarms has been growing in recent years, it cannot be assumed that everyone is familiar with the hazards of carbon monoxide poisoning in the home. Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels (such as gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, oil, and methane) burn incompletely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of carbon monoxide. Vehicles or generators running in an attached garage can also produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Facts & figures
The dangers of CO exposure depend on a number of variables, including the victim's health and activity level. Infants, pregnant women, and people with physical conditions that limit their body's ability to use oxygen (i.e. emphysema, asthma, heart disease) can be more severely affected by lower concentrations of CO than healthy adults would be. A person can be poisoned by a small amount of CO over a longer period of time or by a large amount of CO over a shorter amount of time. In 2005, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 61,100 non-fire CO incidents in which carbon monoxide was found, or an average of seven such calls per hour. The number of incidents increased 18 percent from 51,700 incidents reported in 2003. This increase is most likely due to the increased use of CO detectors, which alert people to the presence of CO.
RECALLS
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death from thousands of types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. The CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard or can injure children. The CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed significantly to the 30 percent decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years. For additional information on recalls and the CPSC go to http://www.cpsc.gov/
Hamilton Beach Recalls Toasters Due to Fire Hazard
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product. Name of Product: Hamilton Beach® classic chrome 2-slice toasters Hazard: The heating element in these toasters can remain energized indefinitely when an item is placed in the toaster which may ignite the contents, posing a fire hazard if the toaster is near flammable items. Incidents/Injuries: Hamilton Beach has received 15 reports of toasters that did not pop-up as intended, including three reports of minor damage to kitchen cabinets. There were no reports of injuries. Description: The Hamilton Beach recall involves model 22600 toasters with specific series codes. These series codes begin with the letters C or D, and have the format of CXXXXBI or DXXXXBI, where XXXX is a four-digit number ranging from 0190 through 5290. The model number and series code are printed on the bottom of the toaster. The toaster has a chromed steel exterior, a front control panel with a rotary toast shade selector and function buttons arranged in an arc, a front removable crumb tray and Hamilton Beach printed across the front of the toaster. Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled toasters and contact the firm to receive instructions on how to obtain a free replacement toaster. Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Hamilton Beach at (800) 379-2200 anytime, or visit the firm's website at www.hamiltonbeach.com. General toaster safety information available from Hamilton Beach at (http:// tinyurl.com/43va5sd)
Page 5
Nine Manufacturers, Distributors Announce Consumer Recall of Pourable Gel Fuel Due to Burn and Flash Fire Hazards
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with nine manufacturers and distributors, is announcing a voluntary recall of all pourable gel fuels made or sold by these companies. Due to the serious risks of flash fire and burns when consumers add pourable gel to an already burning fire pot, consumers should immediately stop using the pourable gel fuel. The recall involves an estimated 2 million units of various pourable gel fuels packaged in one-quart plastic bottles and one-gallon plastic jugs and sold in scented and non-scented formulations, which were sold since 2008 for between $5 and $20 by the companies listed below. Consumers can contact these firms to obtain instructions for a refund of the product and for returning unused bottles and jugs: Bird Brain Inc., of Ypsilanti, Mich. Updated details 10/5/2011 Bond Manufacturing of Antioch, Calif. Updated details 9/28/2011 Sunjel Company (2 Burn Inc.) of Milwaukee Company web site Fuel Barons Inc. of Lake Tahoe, Nev. Updated details 9/28/2011 Lamplight Farms Inc. of Menomonee Falls, Wis.Company web site Luminosities Inc. (Windflame) of St. Paul, Minn. Updated details 9/28/2011 Pacific Décor Ltd. of Woodinwille, Wash. Updated details 9/29/2011 Real Flame of Racine, Wis. Updated details 9/28/2011 Smart Solar Inc. of Oldsmar, Fla. Updated details 9/28/2011 The pourable gel fuel can ignite unexpectedly and splatter onto people and objects nearby when it is poured into a firepot that is still burning. CPSC is aware of 65 incidents resulting in two deaths and 34 victims who were hospitalized with second and third degree burns of the face, chest, hands, arms or legs. Of the 65 incidents, 28 of them, including 37 burn injuries and two fatalities, occurred with fuel gel products made by Napa Home & Garden, which conducted a recall of its products in June 2011, in cooperation with CPSC. Also in June, CPSC issued a press statement alerting consumers to the hazards of pourable gel fuels. All pourable gel fuel, regardless of manufacturer, poses flash fire hazards. Consumers should not attempt to use or fix pourable gel fuel bottles with homemade remedies, or replace the fuel with other flammable materials. Retailers should stop sale of existing inventory and immediately remove all stock of pourable gel fuel from shelves. Some firms are working on a design for caps that may prevent flash fire hazards. https://www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx.
Page 6
Thanksgiving Day Fires in Residential Buildings
An estimated 2,000 Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings are reported to U.S. fire departments each year and cause an estimated average of 5 deaths, 25 injuries, and $21 million in property loss. Smaller, confined fires account for 71 percent of Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings. Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings occur most frequently in the afternoon hours from 12 to 4 p.m., peaking from noon to 1 p.m. Cooking is the leading cause of all Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings at 69 percent. Nearly all of these cooking fires (97 percent) are small, confined fires with limited damage. Electrical malfunctions (14 percent), carelessness or other unintentional actions (14 percent), and open flames (13 percent) are the leading causes of the larger, non-confined Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings. Non-confined Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings most often start in cooking areas and kitchens (22 percent). The leading category of factors contributing to ignition of non-confined Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings is the “misuse of material or product” (35 percent). Within this category, heat source too close to combustible materials and abandoned or discarded materials account for 14 percent and 9 percent of all non-confined Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings, respectively. No smoke alarms were present in 20 percent of non-confined Thanksgiving Day fires in occupied residential buildings.
Fire Safety Tips for Turkey Fryers
As preparations for Thanksgiving get underway at Fort Campbell, the Fort Campbell Fire Department warns citizens of the dangers associated with the use of turkey fryers. The use of these unique cooking devices to prepare holiday meals becomes dangerous because of the risk of burn injuries and fires. Please follow these guidelines: Keep fryer in FULL VIEW never leave unattended Place fryer in an open area AWAY from all walls, fences, or other structures Never use IN, ON, or UNDER a garage, breezeway, carport, porch, or any structure that can catch fire. Raise and lower food SLOWLY to reduce splatter and avoid burns. COVER bare skin when adding or removing food. Check the oil temperature frequently. If oil begins to smoke, immediately turn gas supply OFF. If a fire occurs, immediately call 911. DO NOT attempt to extinguish fire with water.
Guidelines for preparing to use a turkey fryer:
FORT CAMPBELL FIRE & EMERGENCY SERVICES
1747 Kentucky Ave Fort Campbell KY, 42223 Phone: 270-798-7171 Fax: 270-956-3210 www.facebook.com/fortcampbellfireprevention www.campbell.army.mil/fcfd Fire Extinguisher Training Every first Thursday at 1330, Bldg. 202, Rm 245 -246. This is an open training, signing in is required but attendance will not be taken. The format will consist of a teaching lecture, video presentation and a question and answer period. Questions concerning this program may be addressed to Inspector Ewing at ext: 798-7171/7172.
This newsletter is a tool of the Fort Campbell Fire Prevention office to share the fire safety message with as many people as possible. Any questions or concerns may be addressed to [email protected] FIRE PREVENTION TEAM
Joseph Baker Chief Fire Prevention 956-1826 Gary Coplen Fire Inspector 798-7995 Darrell Brantley Fire Inspector 412-3600 David Harwell Fire Inspector 412-4078 Wendy Ewing Fire Inspector 412-3599 David Land Fire Investigator 412-4077 Glenn Pepper Fire Inspector 412-4075
Holiday/Seasonal Fire Prevention
The United States Fire Ad1747 Kentucky Ave ministration (USFA) and Fort Campbell KY, 42223 the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) are working together to remind Phone: 270-798-7171 everyone that home fires Fax: 270-956-3210 are more prevalent in winter than in any other seawww.facebook.com/ son. This is due in part to fortcampbellfireprevention an increase in cooking and www.campbell.army.mil/fcfd heating fires. Holiday decorations and winter storms For Emergencies call: that can interrupt electrical 911 service and cause people to turn to alternative heating sources also contribute Inside This Issue to the increased risk of fire Holiday/Seasonal 1 in winter. What Time Is It? 1 Cooking Fire Safety Holiday/Seasonal cont 2 It's a recipe for serious inBurning Issues 3 jury or even death to wear loose clothing (especially Recalls 4 hanging sleeves), walk Thanksgiving Safety 6 away from a cooking pot on the stove, or leave flamTurkey Fryers 6 mable materials, such as Extinguisher Training 7 potholders or paper towels, Contact Information 7 around the stove. Whether you are cooking the family holiday dinner or a snack for the children, practicing safe cooking behaviors will help keep you and your family safe. Selecting a Tree for the Holidays Needles on fresh trees should be green and hard to pull back from the branches, and the needles should not break if the tree has been freshly cut. The trunk should be sticky to the touch. Old trees can be identified by bouncing the tree trunk on the ground. If many needles fall off, the tree has been cut too long and, has probably dried out, and is a fire hazard. Caring for Your Tree Do not place your tree close to a heat source, inCont pg 2 cluding a fireplace or heat vent. The heat will dry out the tree, causing it to be more easily ignited by heat, flame or sparks. Be careful not to drop or flick cigarette ashes near a tree. Do not put your live tree up too early or leave it up for longer than two weeks. Keep the tree stand filled with water at all times. Disposing of Your Tree Never put tree branches or needles in a fireplace or wood-burning stove. When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly. The best way to dispose of your tree is by taking it to a recycling center or having it hauled away by a community pickup service.
What Time Is It?
Smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector batteries need to be changed at least once a year. So when you change your clock back on November 6, remember to check the batteries too. And once you’ve changed the batteries, be sure to test the alarms. This simple act cuts the risk of dying in a home fire in half. A life saving reminder to change your clock change your battery from the Fort Campbell Fire Department, Campbell Crossing, and the International Association of Fire Chiefs. ANY ISSUES WITH THE PROPER OPERATION OF THE DETECTORS PLEASE CONTACT : On Post Housing: 931-431-3966 On Post Facilities: 798-1200
Page 2
Holiday/Seasonal Fire Prevention
Maintain Your Holiday Lights Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up. Use only lighting listed by an approved testing laboratory. Do Not Overload Electrical Outlets Do not link more than three light strands, unless the directions indicate it is safe. Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet. Make sure to periodically check the wires – they should not be warm to the touch. Do not leave holiday lights on unattended! Use Only Nonflammable Decorations All decorations should be nonflammable or flame-retardant and placed away from heat vents. If you are using a metallic or artificial tree, make sure it is flame retardant. Don't Block Exits Ensure that trees and other holiday decorations do not block an exit way. In the event of a fire, time is of the essence. A blocked entry/exit way puts you and your family at risk. Never Put Wrapping Paper in the Fireplace Wrapping paper in the fireplace can result in a very large fire, throwing off dangerous sparks and embers that may result in a chimney fire. Avoid Using Lit Candles If you do use lit candles, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked down. Never leave the house with candles burning. Never Put Lit Candles on a Tree Do not go near a Christmas tree with an open flame – candles, lighters or matches. Check Your Hotspots Each year fire claims the lives of 3,500 Americans, injures 18,300, and causes billions of dollars worth of damage. People living in rural areas are more than twice as likely to die in a fire than those living in mid-sized cities or suburban areas. The misuse of wood stoves, portable space heaters and kerosene heaters are especially common risks in rural areas. The United States Fire Administration (USFA) believes rural fire problems can be reduced by teaching people to recognize the hazards. By following some of the outlined precautionary steps, individuals can greatly reduce their chances of becoming a fire casualty. Wood Stoves Wood stoves cause over 4,000 residential fires every year. Carefully follow the manufacturer's installation and maintenance instructions. Look for solid construction, such as plate steel or cast iron metal. Check for cracks and inspect legs, hinges and door seals for smooth joints and seams. Use only seasoned wood for fuel, not green wood, artificial logs, or trash. Inspect and clean your pipes and chimneys annually and check monthly for damage or obstructions. Be sure to keep combustible objects at least three feet away from your wood stove. Electric Space Heaters Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Check to make sure it has a thermostat control mechanism, and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over. Heaters are not dryers or tables; don't dry clothes or store objects on top of your heater. Space heaters need space; keep combustibles at least three feet away from each heater. Always unplug your electric space heater when not in use. Kerosene Heaters Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), and check with your local fire department on the legality of kerosene heater use in your community. Never fill your heater with gasoline or camp stove fuel; both flare-up easily. Only use crystal clear K-1 kerosene. Never overfill any portable heater. Use the kerosene heater in a well ventilated room. Fireplaces Fireplaces regularly build up creosote in their chimneys. They need to be cleaned out frequently and chimneys should be inspected for obstructions and cracks to prevent deadly chimney and roof fires. Check to make sure the damper is open before starting any fire. Never burn trash, paper or green wood in your fireplace. These materials cause heavy creosote buildup and are difficult to control. Use a screen heavy enough to stop rolling logs and big enough to cover the entire opening of the fireplace to catch flying sparks. Don't wear loosefitting clothes near any open flame. Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the house or going to bed. Store cooled ashes in a tightly sealed metal container outside the home. Finally, having a working smoke alarm dramatically increases your chances of surviving a fire. And remember to practice a home escape plan frequently with your family.
Page 3
BURNING ISSUES
Space Heaters
With cooler weather approaching the workforce should remember space heaters are for temporary use only. Space heaters are not authorized at the organization level except for emergencies such as no heat and are generally prohibited for energy conservation purposes IAW CAM Reg 420-5, however when permitted approval by DPW shall be required. Space heater use is on case by case bases. Space heaters are not substitutes for central heating, nor are they designed for extended use. Occupants should dress appropriately for the cooler conditions. Do and Don’ts Safety Tips if Space Heaters are used: Do select a space heater that is rated by the manufacturer for the size space you intend to heat. Do make sure the heating equipment has the label showing that it is listed by a recognized testing laboratory (UL). Do plug heater into outlets with sufficient capacity and never into an extension cord. Do use heater on the floor. Do kept at least 36 inches from any combustible materials such a furniture and paper. Do check for fraying or splitting wires, or overheating. Have problems repaired by a professional before operating the space heater. Don’t position heaters near water or where there is danger of water being spilled, to avoid serious risk of electric shock. Don’t hide cords under rugs or carpets. Placing anything on top of a cord could cause it to overheat, and can cause fire. Don’t ever place heaters on furniture, since they may fall, dislodging or breaking parts in the heater, which could result in a fire or shock hazard. Don’t leave space heaters operating when you are not in the room. Don’t put drying clothing or combustibles over heaters.
The Burning of Classified Materials
We have had a rash of dumpster fires, 14 in the last 6 months, caused by the Soldiers burning classified materials in trash cans and then dumping it in the dumpster. The burning of classified materials is prohibited IAW CAM REG 420-24, 8-12. To destroy classified materials make an appointment with G2, DPTMS Chief, Security & Intelligence Division, 798-2425. No open fires shall be permitted on the installation at any time without the express approval and permission of the Fire Chief or designated representatives.
Page 4
Carbon monoxide
Although the popularity of carbon monoxide (CO) alarms has been growing in recent years, it cannot be assumed that everyone is familiar with the hazards of carbon monoxide poisoning in the home. Often called the silent killer, carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels (such as gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, oil, and methane) burn incompletely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of carbon monoxide. Vehicles or generators running in an attached garage can also produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Facts & figures
The dangers of CO exposure depend on a number of variables, including the victim's health and activity level. Infants, pregnant women, and people with physical conditions that limit their body's ability to use oxygen (i.e. emphysema, asthma, heart disease) can be more severely affected by lower concentrations of CO than healthy adults would be. A person can be poisoned by a small amount of CO over a longer period of time or by a large amount of CO over a shorter amount of time. In 2005, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 61,100 non-fire CO incidents in which carbon monoxide was found, or an average of seven such calls per hour. The number of incidents increased 18 percent from 51,700 incidents reported in 2003. This increase is most likely due to the increased use of CO detectors, which alert people to the presence of CO.
RECALLS
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death from thousands of types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. The CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard or can injure children. The CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals - contributed significantly to the 30 percent decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years. For additional information on recalls and the CPSC go to http://www.cpsc.gov/
Hamilton Beach Recalls Toasters Due to Fire Hazard
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product. Name of Product: Hamilton Beach® classic chrome 2-slice toasters Hazard: The heating element in these toasters can remain energized indefinitely when an item is placed in the toaster which may ignite the contents, posing a fire hazard if the toaster is near flammable items. Incidents/Injuries: Hamilton Beach has received 15 reports of toasters that did not pop-up as intended, including three reports of minor damage to kitchen cabinets. There were no reports of injuries. Description: The Hamilton Beach recall involves model 22600 toasters with specific series codes. These series codes begin with the letters C or D, and have the format of CXXXXBI or DXXXXBI, where XXXX is a four-digit number ranging from 0190 through 5290. The model number and series code are printed on the bottom of the toaster. The toaster has a chromed steel exterior, a front control panel with a rotary toast shade selector and function buttons arranged in an arc, a front removable crumb tray and Hamilton Beach printed across the front of the toaster. Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled toasters and contact the firm to receive instructions on how to obtain a free replacement toaster. Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Hamilton Beach at (800) 379-2200 anytime, or visit the firm's website at www.hamiltonbeach.com. General toaster safety information available from Hamilton Beach at (http:// tinyurl.com/43va5sd)
Page 5
Nine Manufacturers, Distributors Announce Consumer Recall of Pourable Gel Fuel Due to Burn and Flash Fire Hazards
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with nine manufacturers and distributors, is announcing a voluntary recall of all pourable gel fuels made or sold by these companies. Due to the serious risks of flash fire and burns when consumers add pourable gel to an already burning fire pot, consumers should immediately stop using the pourable gel fuel. The recall involves an estimated 2 million units of various pourable gel fuels packaged in one-quart plastic bottles and one-gallon plastic jugs and sold in scented and non-scented formulations, which were sold since 2008 for between $5 and $20 by the companies listed below. Consumers can contact these firms to obtain instructions for a refund of the product and for returning unused bottles and jugs: Bird Brain Inc., of Ypsilanti, Mich. Updated details 10/5/2011 Bond Manufacturing of Antioch, Calif. Updated details 9/28/2011 Sunjel Company (2 Burn Inc.) of Milwaukee Company web site Fuel Barons Inc. of Lake Tahoe, Nev. Updated details 9/28/2011 Lamplight Farms Inc. of Menomonee Falls, Wis.Company web site Luminosities Inc. (Windflame) of St. Paul, Minn. Updated details 9/28/2011 Pacific Décor Ltd. of Woodinwille, Wash. Updated details 9/29/2011 Real Flame of Racine, Wis. Updated details 9/28/2011 Smart Solar Inc. of Oldsmar, Fla. Updated details 9/28/2011 The pourable gel fuel can ignite unexpectedly and splatter onto people and objects nearby when it is poured into a firepot that is still burning. CPSC is aware of 65 incidents resulting in two deaths and 34 victims who were hospitalized with second and third degree burns of the face, chest, hands, arms or legs. Of the 65 incidents, 28 of them, including 37 burn injuries and two fatalities, occurred with fuel gel products made by Napa Home & Garden, which conducted a recall of its products in June 2011, in cooperation with CPSC. Also in June, CPSC issued a press statement alerting consumers to the hazards of pourable gel fuels. All pourable gel fuel, regardless of manufacturer, poses flash fire hazards. Consumers should not attempt to use or fix pourable gel fuel bottles with homemade remedies, or replace the fuel with other flammable materials. Retailers should stop sale of existing inventory and immediately remove all stock of pourable gel fuel from shelves. Some firms are working on a design for caps that may prevent flash fire hazards. https://www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx.
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Thanksgiving Day Fires in Residential Buildings
An estimated 2,000 Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings are reported to U.S. fire departments each year and cause an estimated average of 5 deaths, 25 injuries, and $21 million in property loss. Smaller, confined fires account for 71 percent of Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings. Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings occur most frequently in the afternoon hours from 12 to 4 p.m., peaking from noon to 1 p.m. Cooking is the leading cause of all Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings at 69 percent. Nearly all of these cooking fires (97 percent) are small, confined fires with limited damage. Electrical malfunctions (14 percent), carelessness or other unintentional actions (14 percent), and open flames (13 percent) are the leading causes of the larger, non-confined Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings. Non-confined Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings most often start in cooking areas and kitchens (22 percent). The leading category of factors contributing to ignition of non-confined Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings is the “misuse of material or product” (35 percent). Within this category, heat source too close to combustible materials and abandoned or discarded materials account for 14 percent and 9 percent of all non-confined Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings, respectively. No smoke alarms were present in 20 percent of non-confined Thanksgiving Day fires in occupied residential buildings.
Fire Safety Tips for Turkey Fryers
As preparations for Thanksgiving get underway at Fort Campbell, the Fort Campbell Fire Department warns citizens of the dangers associated with the use of turkey fryers. The use of these unique cooking devices to prepare holiday meals becomes dangerous because of the risk of burn injuries and fires. Please follow these guidelines: Keep fryer in FULL VIEW never leave unattended Place fryer in an open area AWAY from all walls, fences, or other structures Never use IN, ON, or UNDER a garage, breezeway, carport, porch, or any structure that can catch fire. Raise and lower food SLOWLY to reduce splatter and avoid burns. COVER bare skin when adding or removing food. Check the oil temperature frequently. If oil begins to smoke, immediately turn gas supply OFF. If a fire occurs, immediately call 911. DO NOT attempt to extinguish fire with water.
Guidelines for preparing to use a turkey fryer:
FORT CAMPBELL FIRE & EMERGENCY SERVICES
1747 Kentucky Ave Fort Campbell KY, 42223 Phone: 270-798-7171 Fax: 270-956-3210 www.facebook.com/fortcampbellfireprevention www.campbell.army.mil/fcfd Fire Extinguisher Training Every first Thursday at 1330, Bldg. 202, Rm 245 -246. This is an open training, signing in is required but attendance will not be taken. The format will consist of a teaching lecture, video presentation and a question and answer period. Questions concerning this program may be addressed to Inspector Ewing at ext: 798-7171/7172.
This newsletter is a tool of the Fort Campbell Fire Prevention office to share the fire safety message with as many people as possible. Any questions or concerns may be addressed to [email protected] FIRE PREVENTION TEAM
Joseph Baker Chief Fire Prevention 956-1826 Gary Coplen Fire Inspector 798-7995 Darrell Brantley Fire Inspector 412-3600 David Harwell Fire Inspector 412-4078 Wendy Ewing Fire Inspector 412-3599 David Land Fire Investigator 412-4077 Glenn Pepper Fire Inspector 412-4075
