Manchester Fire Inspector Roger Thrall shared home safety tips for older adults and answered a boatload of questions at UR Community Tech Center’s October Social Mixer
Fire Safety Awareness at UR Community Tech Center
We had the privilege of welcoming the Manchester Fire Inspector to our Tech Center for an informative presentation on fire safety. With the National Weather Service issuing a Red Flag Warning for Hartford County due to critical fire weather conditions expected today, October 26, the timing couldn’t have been more relevant.
Understanding the Risks
The presentation highlighted the alarming increase in fire hazards in people’s homes, he told the attendees “to plug your microwave directly into the outlet, not into an extension cord”. He stressed having a working smoke detector on every floor of your house and carbon monoxide meter. He warned “watch out not to overheat your lithium batteries.” Roger said “This is can be a fire hazard, overcharging,” We learned that using faulty chargers or charging the battery beyond its recommended voltage can increase internal temperatures.
We received so many great tips!
Key takeaways from the presentation, know your environment, the Fire Inspector stressed the importance of being aware of our surroundings. Recognizing combustible materials and understanding the geography of our area can help in mitigating risks.
Click below to read the press release by Governor Lamont yesterday:
Governor Lamont Declares State of Emergency Due to Critical Fire Weather Conditions Statewide
As residents of Connecticut, it is crucial to understand what these warnings mean. A Red Flag Warning indicates that critical fire weather conditions are occurring or will occur soon, making it imperative to adhere to local regulations, including outdoor burning bans. For those in Manchester, the town outdoor burning ban remains in effect, reflecting our commitment to safeguarding both people and property. We urge you to check with your town fire department on how you can stay safe.
Connecticut is having very dry and windy conditions, which are characteristic of this time of year but more severe due to no rain. The Red Flag Warning is a clear indicator that the environment is ripe for wildfires, and it serves as a vital reminder of the responsibilities we all share in preventing fire incidents. We want to emphasize that, even in suburban and urban settings, the risk of fire can escalate quickly, particularly with the combination of low humidity and high winds.
Warnings:
Proper disposal of cigarettes: One of the main causes of wildfires can be improperly discarded cigarettes. Always ensure that you dispose of them in designated receptacles.
Equipment maintenance: Regularly maintaining equipment like lawn mowers and generators can prevent accidental fires. Check for fuel leaks and keep flammable materials at a safe distance.
Emergency preparedness: It’s essential to have an emergency plan in place. Families should discuss evacuation routes and have a kit ready with necessary supplies.
Community vigilance: If you see smoke or flames outside controlled burns, report them immediately to authorities, call 911. Communities thrive when we look out for one another.
As we move forward, it’s essential to incorporate these fire safety practices into our daily lives, particularly during times of heightened risk. The Manchester Fire Inspector’s insights serve not only to educate but also to empower individuals with knowledge that can save lives and property. Thanks Roger!
While the outdoor burning ban may seem inconvenient to some, it is a necessary measure to protect our community from potential disasters. By complying with these regulations, we collectively contribute to the safety and security of our neighborhoods.
Let’s remember that fire safety isn’t just a personal responsibility, it’s a community effort. By staying informed and prepared, we can minimize risks and ensure that our beautiful state remains safe for all residents.
Stay safe, and let’s work together to prevent fires this season!
Safety first,
Michelle Puzzo, Executive Director
www.urcommunitycares.org
info@urcommunitycares.org
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