Fire Fatalities Increased 157% over Same Time Last Year
In the first 71-days of 2009, there have already been 18 confirmed fire fatalities reported to the Office of the State Fire Marshal. This is a 157% increase compared to the same period last year.
State Fire Marshal Michael Matlick would like everyone to remember this fire prevention advice: “Fires spread quickly, and it is critical for every household to take proper steps to prevent them.” Please use these fire prevention tips:
Develop a fire escape for your home and have your whole family practice it.
Ensure your smoke alarms are properly installed, have working batteries, and are tested monthly.
Do not smoke in bed, and extinguish all smoking material in non-combustible, sturdy containers.
Avoid becoming distracted when cooking. Keep all items that can burn or melt, away from the stovetop.
Maintain all electrical equipment in your home in good working order. Stop using any damaged electrical appliances until repaired by a qualified repair technician or electrician.
Illegal drug manufacturing operations are a danger to the individuals making the drugs and anyone who may be around them. Three of this year’s fire fatalities were the result of an illegal drug manufacturing operation in a recreational vehicle. The illegal operation created a fast burning fire that quickly overwhelmed the occupants.
The Office of the State Fire Marshal is a Bureau of the Washington State Patrol, providing fire and life safety services to the citizens of Washington State including inspections of state licensed facilities, plan review of school construction projects, licensing of fire sprinkler contractors and pyrotechnic operators, training Washington State’s firefighters, and collecting emergency response data.
