The fire prevention division of the Northshore Fire Department is passionate about safety. In our efforts to ensure fire safety throughout our community we provide a wide variety of services to the cities of Kenmore and Lake Forest Park and the surrounding district. We are involved in code development, plan review, construction inspections, and safety inspections of existing businesses. Customer assistance with fire safety concerns and questions is a high priority for each of us. Investigations of fires are performed in cooperation with the King County Fire Marshal’s Office and provide information critical to improving the services we provide. Division personnel also provide disaster preparedness assistance and training to citizens. One very important component of our job is public safety education. The benefits provided to the entire community are immeasurable. Education is the key to increased knowledge and assisting people to develop safety minded behaviors.
In Washington State, most fire deaths occur in the home. In 2005, there were 24,421 fires in Washington. These fires caused 64 fire deaths and an estimated direct property loss of over $143 million. Tragically, most of these fires were preventable.
In response to these preventable fire deaths, a campaign has been developed by a group of public safety experts from the Office of the State Fire Marshal, the Department of Health, the Department of Natural Resources, the Washington Fire Chiefs, the Washington State Association of Fire Marshals, and the Washington Public Fire Educators. The campaign emphasizes fire prevention and the leading causes of fire deaths.
The slogan “Prevent Fires—It’s Your Job!” was designed to call attention to personal responsibility in preventing fires. Fires are no accident and many are predictable and preventable. Through education and knowledge, residents can prevent fires from starting in their homes. The leading causes of fire fatalities are highlighted below:
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is the leading cause of fire fatalities in Washington State. Most often, fires began when upholstered furniture, mattresses, or bedding was ignited. Smoking should be done outside, and fully extinguish all smoking materials. |
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Home heating fires are often caused when items that can burn are placed too close to a heat source. Caution should be taken when using fireplaces, space heaters, candles, and wood/pellet stoves. Anything that can catch fire should be 36 inches from a heat source. |
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Electrical fires are most often started from electrical distribution, wiring, and appliances. Be sure outlets and electrical systems are adequate to prevent overloading. Discontinue using electrical cords that are damaged or frayed. Extension cords are no substitute for permanent wiring. |
It is our job in the fire service to put out fires; it is your job to prevent fires from ever starting.
