The Camas-Washougal Fire Department is committed to providing life safety education for our citizens. The following safety tips are provided by our Fire Prevention Division. For additional information call 834-6191.
- Smoke Alarms
- Carbon Monoxide Alarms
- Emergency Evacuation Planning
- Fire Extinguisher Training
- Match & Lighter Safety
- Backyard Barbeque Safety
Additional safety tips can be found at the following:
www.sparky.org - Sparky the Dog has been the National Fire Protection Agency's Mascot since 1951. This site allows kids learn about fire safety in a safe interactive environment.
www.safekids.org - This site is focused on educating parents and kids about preventing injury.
www.usfa.fema.gov - Federal Emergency Management Association
www.cpsc.gov - U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Fireworks Safety
- Be prepared and know the fireworks do's and dont's. Rememeber that fireworks safety begins with you!
- Do you know the fireworks that are illegal in Washington State?
- Can you tell the difference between illegal and legal fireworks? It could save a life!
- Be sure you know the dates and times that fireworks can be legally purchased and discharged!
Christmas Holiday Safety
As the Christmas season is upon us, the Camas-Washougal Fire Marshal’s Office encourages all of our citizens to use extra precautions and follow the safety tips below to ensure a safe and happy celebration.
Christmas Trees - Selection, Care and Disposal
- To select a fresh tree check the needles; they should be green and hard to pull back from the branches. If needles fall off easily the tree has dried out and it is a fire hazard.
- Do not place your tree close to a heat source, including a fireplace or heat vent and keep the tree stand filled with water.
- When disposing of your tree never put tree branches or needles in a fireplace or wood burning stove. When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly. The best way to dispose of your tree is by taking it to a recycling center or having it hauled away by a community pick-up service.
Holiday Lights
- Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed and/or exposed wires and excessive kinking before putting them up.
- Use only lighting listed by an approved testing laboratory.
- Do not link more than three light strands, unless the directions indicate it is safe.
- Make sure to periodically check the wires - they should not be warm to the touch.
- If possible, invest in LED lights which produce less heat (and are therefore safer).
Holiday Decorations
- All decorations should be nonflammable or flame retardant and placed away from heat sources.
- Never put wrapping paper in the fireplace - when it burns it can throw off dangerous sparks and encourage roof fires.
Holiday Safety Tips - Around the Home
- If you use candles, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked down or accessed by children. Battery operated candles are a safe alternative.
- Never leave the house or go to sleep with candles burning.
- Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.
- Be mindful in the kitchen. Don't leave your cooking unattended.
- Test your smoke alarms and make sure they are functioning properly.
The International Fire Code (IFC) and Holiday Safety
For further information regarding decorative vegetation and open flames, please see: