
SouthCoast Fire Safety Tips
Our hearts are with those in Southern California as the devastation from the wildfires continues to change the city of Los Angeles and beyond.
As crews continue to battle the flames, many on the East Coast send their love and support while also finding it hard to imagine what it's like to experience such a tragedy.
"We hope and pray that it can be taken care of in a timely manner without any further loss of life," said Anthony Poente, the Public Fire and Life Safety Educator for the City of New Bedford.
Poente shared his knowledge on fire safety with us.
While wildfires aren't the norm, they're not impossible in our area. After watching videos of residents saving prized possessions and being reunited with their pets, you may have contemplated what would be in your go bag or what precautions you should take in your own home to avoid a disaster.
In our area, burning occurs, but it's important to note that most cities do not allow open burning.
If burning is allowed in your area, be aware of wind speeds. Once winds reach 15 miles per hour, burning must stop. Poente recalled a fire in Dartmouth that burned close to half an acre which he said could have been preventable.
Another big offender is cigarettes. You may think tossing one out a car window does no harm, but into grass, leaves or mulch beds, it can wreak havoc. Please dispose of smoking materials safely.
Inside the home, Poente reminds residents to extinguish flames, even small ones. Blow out candles when leaving the house or going to bed. Don't place them near windows where curtains can catch fire.
Even birthday candles can be hazardous if not thrown away properly.
"Soak them in a cup of water overnight before putting them in the trash," Poente said.
Also, keep matches and lighters out of reach of children who may be curious.
If an emergency should occur, call 9-1-1.
Stay prepared. Make sure you not only have smoke detectors, but working ones, and replace them every 10 years. Carbon monoxide detectors are also important. There should be one on each level of a home, no more than 10 feet from bedroom doors.
Locate two ways to get out of every room. This could be a door and a window in a bedroom, but think further. Poente reminds us that this goes beyond the home. Always locate two exits in stores, theaters and other public locations.
In addition to his role with the City of New Bedford, Poente works in schools educating the youth in cooking safety, escape plans and even babysitting tips. His passion for fire safety doesn't go unnoticed as he strives to keep the SouthCoast safe.
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Gallery Credit: Drew Kirby/Canva
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