Fire Safety and the Holidays
November: a month when the days grow shorter, the air cooler, and hearts warmer with gratitude. As we take a moment to be thankful for the roofs over our heads, it’s also the perfect time to ensure the safety of our cherished homes. With gratitude as our guides, let’s delve into nine thoughtful ways to prevent fires in the spaces we hold dear.
1. Cherish Smoke Alarms
Express thanks for the protective tech in our homes by routinely checking smoke alarms. Their gentle beep is a reminder of the shield they provide. Test them monthly and ensure they’re always in top shape.
2. Cook with Presence
The kitchen, where many memories are made and savored. Show gratitude for these moments by staying present while cooking. Every attentive minute spent here safeguards our homes and loved ones. If you must leave the kitchen, grab a pot holder or spoon to remind yourself you have food cooking.
3. Space Heaters: Give Them Room to Breathe
Like us, space heaters need room to breathe. Place them in open areas as a token of appreciation for the warmth they share, ensuring they have at least 36” distance from potential hazards like fabrics or flammable materials.
4. Fireplace: The Heart of the Home
A fireplace isn't just a source of warmth; it's where stories are shared, and songs sung. Show your gratitude by using a sturdy screen, disposing of ashes carefully, and maintaining a 3’ kid and pet free zone.
5. Candles: The Gentle Glow of Thanks
Every candle flicker can be a reminder of the things we’re thankful for. As they light up our spaces, ensure they're distanced from flammables. Or better yet, consider flameless candles for a risk-free glow.
6. Electrical Cords: Thankful Connections
Our devices connect us to the world. Show appreciation by ensuring their cords are in good shape, avoid running appliances through extension cords, and never hide them underneath rugs or walking paths.
7. Festive Gratitude
This holiday season, as we dress our homes with decorations, let's do so mindfully, keeping them away from open flames and heaters. Our thoughtful placements are a nod of thanks for festive times spent safely.
8. Gratitude in Preparedness
Let’s give thanks for the security of our homes by preparing, and practicing, home escape plans. By being ready, we’re valuing every moment and person under our roof.
9. Teaching the Next Generation
Imparting safety knowledge to our young ones is a profound act of gratitude. It ensures they grow up with an appreciation for the sanctity of home. Model the behavior you want them to follow, talking about it as you go!
As we express our gratitude this November, let's remember that every act of prevention is an act of love for our homes and the memories they hold. Cheers to a safe and thankful month!
In-home COVID-19 vaccinations
As cold and flu season ramps up and more people become eligible for their COVID-19 booster, we wanted to share information on Public Health, Seattle and King County's in-home vaccination program. In-home vaccinations are available for people 6-months of age and older who are eligible for a primary series or booster does and have an injury, developmental disability or a medical or mental health condition that makes it difficult to leave the home. More information can be found on their frequently asked questions sheet.
To request an in-home vaccination, please contact the King County COVID-19 Call Center at 206-848-0243 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
PulsePoint Life Saving App
You know CPR. You've been trained how to use an AED. But will you ever be in a position to save a life? We'd say the chances have recently increased. On June 1, 2022, the King County Fire Chiefs Association, in coordination with the Medic One Foundation launched PulsePoint, a life saving mobile app that notifies users when someone nearby is in cardiac arrest and needs immediate help. Similar to emergency alerts that are pushed out to cell-phones, registered PulsePoint users will be alerted anytime there is a cardiac arrest emergency in their immediate vicinity, allowing hands-only CPR to be started minutes earlier.
More information about Pulse Point and PulsePoint AED can be found at the Medic One Foundation.