Winter Safety

Winter Safety Tips

Keep Fire Hydrants Clear of Snow - An accessible and properly functioning fire hydrant is a vital part of any firefighting operation. Please avoid piling snow on or around fire hydrants. If possible, especially during very heavy snow falls, take a few extra minutes to ‘adopt’ your nearest fire hydrant by clearing the snow from around the hydrant. This improves firefighter’s ability to quickly locate and access the hydrant in an emergency.

Keep Roads Clear for Emergency Vehicles - Operating an emergency vehicle such as a fire truck or an ambulance is a complex job under perfect weather conditions that becomes even more challenging under the current weather conditions. Please exercise extra caution when driving and yield the right of way to emergency vehicles responding to alarms. He also asks that drivers do everything they can to avoid blocking access to snow emergency streets and other key thoroughfares. The same applies to the fire lanes or fire zones in commercial parking lots.

Make Sure That The Address On Your Home is Visible From the Street - While you are out clearing the driveway and the walk, you also need to clear off the markings on the home or business, so firefighters can quickly reach you in an emergency.

Basic Beach Safety Tips:

• Make sure lifeguards are on duty and ask about surf conditions before going in the water.
• Try and swim in an area near a lifeguard tower and never swim alone. Only swim in designated areas. 
• Never dive in the surf head first. The water is not always clear and you may not notice any obstructions or how shallow the water in front of you is.
• Don’t swim out to far or overestimate your swimming ability. Never depend on flotation devices for your safety. Swim parallel to the shore if you want to swim long distances.
• Never drink alcohol and swim.
• ALWAYS keep an eye on your children. Don’t turn away, even for a moment. Children can fall below the surface in a second and it can be impossible to find them fast enough.
• Always hold the hands of younger children. Sudden changes in surf direction can separate them from you in an instant.
• Swim parallel to the shore if you want to swim long distances.
• Wear “Water Shoes” or sandals on the beach to avoid broken glass and sharp shells.
• Lightning strikes at the beach are common in thunder storms. If you hear thunder, get out of the water immediately. Seek shelter in a building or automobile. If no shelter is available, find the lowest spot possible and avoid open spaces. Don't sit under an umbrella and stay away from metal objects like aluminum chairs.
• If you get into trouble in the water, don't panic. Raise and wave your arm for help, float and wait for assistance.
• Wear sunscreen, with at least a level 15 sun protection factor, to protect against burns.