(Spirit Lake)– This week is National Fire Prevention Week. This year’s theme is “Use Candles With Care: when you go out, blow out”. Spirit Lake Fire Chief Wally Jorgenson says they respond to atleast two or three fires a year in which candles have been singled out as a cause. He offers several safety tips. For starters, Jorgenson says you should never leave a candle burning unattended. Adults should always be present whenever candles are being burned, and candles should be in a sturdy holder sitting on a sturdy, uncluttered surface away from combustible materials. Jorgenson says in the event of a power outage, it’s much safer to use flashlights. Finally, Jorgenson says candles should NEVER be burned in a bedroom.
Jorgenson is also reminding everyone this week of the importance of smoke detectors. He recommends changing the batteries and testing them atleast twice a year–in the spring and fall. Jorgenson also recommends replacing your smoke detector if it’s more than 10 years old.
And with the heating season here, Jorgenson recommends you have your furnace professionally inspected. He also says you should make sure all combustible items are atleast three feet away from your furnace and water heater.
Jorgenson urges families and businesses to conduct periodic drills and to have plans in place in the event a fire should actually break out.
