2 Fires in 10 Days: Wilton Fire Marshal Reminds Residents of Safety Precautions

WILTON, CT-- In the wake of two house fires in 10 days, the Office of the Fire Marshal is reminding residents of some things they can do to prevent them.

"The people of Wilton are doing things or not doing things that are contributing to these incidents. Please take a lesson from your neighbors who have suffered material losses due to fires in their homes," the Fire Marshal stated.

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The office of the Fire Marshal is urging residents to review the following:

• Do not overload outlets with multiple 4, 5 and 6 way plug receptacles.
• Do not run wires under rugs.
• Do not daisy-chain outlet strips and make sure they have a circuit breaker on them.
• Do not use extension cords on a permanent basis for appliances. These should be plugged directly into an outlet.
• Keep at least three feet of distance between any portable heater, blower or permanent heating system vent to combustible materials, e.g. bedding, stacks of papers or magazines, table cloths, drapes and the wood pile.
• Check older heating systems especially built-in wall units, etc. Wiring gets old, dries out and then… We have a lot of older homes in Town so electrical maintenance is key to preventing a home fire.
• Never leave fire places, wood burning stoves or similar appurtenances unattended.
• Never leave the stove unattended while cooking.
• Watch the temperature of cooking oils especially when deep frying.
• Never use water on a grease fire. Simply cover the pot or pan.
• Never store flammable or combustible liquids or portable propane tanks inside your home.
• Get rid of old or non-usable materials through proper disposal methods.

The Fire Marhsal also reminds residents to call 9-1-1 for all emergencies, not the firehouse, because they may be out on another call.

Call the Office of the Fire Marshal 203-834-6249 for more information.