Dec 06, 2011 - MAYOR BOOKER, FIRE DIRECTOR ZIYAD, AND FIRE CHIEF CENTANNI PROVIDE NEWARK RESIDENTS WITH FIRE SAFETY TIPS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

According to the National Fire Protection Association, the nation’s fire departments responded to an average of 240 home structure fires that began with Christmas trees between 2005 and 2009. These fires caused an annual average of 13 civilian fire deaths, 27 civilian fire injuries, and $16.7 million in property damage. A heat source too close to the Christmas tree started one of every five of these fires.

“It is important for every resident to take personal responsibility when it comes to fire safety,” said Mayor Booker. “While the holiday season can be a blessed time of celebration for Newark families, there are safety tips our families should practice so they can protect their loved ones and homes from the dangers of fire. By taking these precautions, we can all enjoy a safe and happy holiday.”

“Christmas tree fires are not common, but when they occur, they are likely to be serious,” Director Ziyad said. “On average, one of every 18 reported fires nationwide that began with a Christmas tree resulted in death.”

Director Ziyad gave the following tips on tree safety:

Picking the tree:

Placing the tree:

Lighting the tree:

After Christmas:

In addition, decorations for special events, most often involving candles, account for an annual average of 900 home fires, causing nearly $6 million in direct property damage. Lit candles should never be left unattended indoors and should be kept away from landings and doorsteps where costumes can brush against the flame or people can trip over the open flame. It is safer to light candles with long, fireplace, matches or a long safety light. Always extinguish candles when leaving the house or before going to sleep.

Chief Centanni also reminded residents about cooking fire safety.

“Keeping safe while cooking that holiday feast can be cut down to three essentials,” said Chief Centanni. “Don’t leave cooking pans unattended, don’t let children into the kitchen while cooking, and make sure the kitchen is clean. In short: stand by your pan, no kids allowed, and keep it clean.”

The Fire Department also recommends that you follow these guidelines for kitchen safety:

·         Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food.

Chief Centanni reminded parents that they should educate children to stay clear of open flames and other heat sources. Ensure that children know how to perform STOP, DROP, AND ROLL, should their clothes catch on fire. (If your clothes catch on fire: STOP immediately, DROP to the ground, and ROLL over and over to extinguish the flames.)

Since 2006, the Newark Fire Department has opened new and renovated fire stations, graduated new fire recruits and added new vehicles to its inventory. In July 2008, the Newark Fire Department graduated the 39th Recruit Class from the Fire Academy bringing the total number of firefighters in the Department to 639.   In October 2009, the Newark Fire Department unveiled its new 41-foot-long Hazmat truck which will provide firefighters with a wide array of state-of-the-art equipment, including a 9,000-pound winch, a 9,000-watt light tower, a Robotic Search Camera to investigate disasters areas difficult to access, and extrication tools for car crashes. The Newark Fire Department also has a number of specialized units, including an Arson Unit, a Hazardous Materials Unit, a Fireboat, a Confined Space Rescue Team, a Foam Tanker, and a Cascade Unit, which responds to emergency scenes to fill air bottles. In addition, the Department is one of only nine in the State of New Jersey whose Metro Strike Team has a Collapse Unit, to deal with collapsed buildings. Most of the Department’s specialized units are assigned for regional response, to assist neighboring communities that lack such equipment and training.

For more information about fire prevention and all other City of Newark programs and policies, contact the Non-Emergency Call Center at (973) 733-4311.

-NEWARK-

Contact:         Newark Press Information Office: (973) 733-8004

With a new Administration as of July 2006, Newark continues to see signs of a strong revival. Its population showed growth in the most recent census. Its six major colleges and universities are further expanding their presence. The rate of production of affordable housing has doubled, and new businesses are moving in. There is still much work to be done but Newark is on its way to achieving its mission: to set a national standard for urban transformation.