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Detroit Local NewsDetroit strengthens fire safety education with virtual seminar on fire prevention strategies

Detroit strengthens fire safety education with virtual seminar on fire prevention strategies

Detroit, Michigan – With an emphasis on preventing fires connected to cooking, smoking, and candles, the Detroit Fire Department (DFD) has announced an upcoming webinar targeted at teaching people on the vital parts of fire safety. Planned for Tuesday, March 12, this educational program falls within the DFD’s Safety Series. The program aims to solve the main causes of house fires and equip locals with information required to prevent them.

With over 22% of all structure fires in Detroit Fire Department statistics showing cooking activities as the main cause of home fires in the city. Additionally, 14% of these fires might also be found resulting from cooking equipment misuse. The webinar will specifically discuss the risks of leaving cooking unattended, which is nationally known as the main cause of kitchen fires and usually results in major casualties.

Captain Theresa Halsell from the DFD’s Community Relations Division stressed the importance of proactive fire safety measures.

“Fire safety starts with awareness and prevention,” said Captain Theresa Halsell of the Detroit Fire Department Community Relations Division. “Simple actions, like staying in the kitchen while cooking and keeping flammable items away from open flames, can save lives.”

The Detroit Fire Department (DFD) has announced an upcoming webinar on March 12 targeted at teaching people on the vital parts of fire safety
Credit: Unsplash

Executive Fire Commissioner Chuck Simms also commented on the need for increased awareness around smoking and candle use, which are significant fire risks.

“Some of the most damaging fires we have here in Detroit are due to cooking, smoking and improper use of candles,” said Commissioner Simms. “Our team is working to empower our residents to stay safe by making sure they have access to the best tips and tricks to prevent fires at home and know what to do if one does occur.”

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Essential fire safety practices highlighted by DFD:

  • For Cooking: Residents are advised to never leave cooking unattended and to use timers as reminders. If a fire starts on the stovetop, covering the pan with a lid and turning off the burner can prevent flames from spreading. In the case of an oven fire, it is crucial to keep the oven door closed and turn off the heat.
  • For Smoking: As smoking remains a top cause of fire deaths, it is recommended to smoke outside and ensure cigarettes are completely extinguished. Using deep, stable ashtrays and avoiding smoking in homes with medical oxygen are key precautions.
  • For Candle Use: Candles should be placed at least one foot away from anything flammable and never left unattended. The DFD recommends switching to flameless LED candles for a safer environment.

The department stresses the need of immediately calling 911 and evacuating right away should a fire occur. Detroit has among the fastest emergency response times in the country, always ready to assist its citizens.

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Attending the DFD Safety Series webinar will help residents better grasp the risks of fire and preventions strategies. To register for the event or for further information, please call (313) 596-2959 or email Captain Theresa Halsell at [email protected].