Escambia County Government: Escambia County Fire Rescue Urges Fire Safety This Fall

Press release from Escambia County Government:

Sep 22, 2021

Escambia County residents are encouraged to monitor seasonal fire risks as cooler temperatures arrive. Wednesday, Sept. 22 marks the first day of the Fall season, meaning residents can expect cooler temperatures in the near future. Escambia County can expect outdoor camp fires, bon fires, and indoor space heaters and fire places in-use. 

As the demand for using various methods to stay warm increase, so does the threat for fires.

"As cooler temperatures move in, Escambia County expects an increase in electrical and heater fires," said Escambia County Fire and Life Specialist Ray Melton. "Heaters, furnaces and fireplaces become a big concern as residents do not have these items serviced or inspected before use."

According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths and space heaters account for 4 out of 5 home heating fire deaths. 

According to Escambia County Fire and Life Specialist Ray Melton, Escambia County residents are encouraged to follow these guidelines while preparing for the colder months:

• Have all heating sources inspected and serviced before the weather turns cold.
• Make sure heaters stay three feet away from anything that can burn.
• Make sure heaters are NOT plugged into power strips.
• Outdoor recreational fires and camp fires should be at least 10 feet away from anything that will burn.
• Have a fire extinguisher and/or water source available to extinguish the fire.

Escambia County Fire Rescue proudly operates as a combination fire service, utilizing the talents and diversities of volunteer and career firefighting personnel. Career personnel operate in 14 stations throughout the county. Thirteen stations work a 24/48-hour shift and one station works Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteer firefighters operate out of numerous stations throughout Escambia County. Escambia County Fire Rescue also provides other emergency services such as hazardous materials response, special operations and ALS non-transport. Learn more about how to join Escambia County Fire Rescue. Follow Escambia County Fire Rescue on Facebook.

This press release was produced by Escambia County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.