Central Cascades Fire & EMS Urges Everyone to “Stay Fire Smart! Don’t Get Burned.”
That’s why Central Cascades Fire & EMS is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for Fire Prevention Week 2009 – October 4-10 – to urge everyone to “Stay Fire Smart! Don’t Get Burned.” This year’s campaign focuses on ways to keep homes fire safe and prevent painful burns.
The statistics are staggering. Each year roughly 3,000 people dies as a result of home fires and burns, and more than 200,000 individuals are seen in the nation’s emergency rooms for burn injuries.
“The most common types of burn injuries result from fire or flame burns, scalds and contact burns”. “Burns are painful and can result in serious scarring and even death. When we take extra caution in our homes to ensure that the curling iron is out of children’s reach or pot handles are turned away from the edge of the stove, such injuries are entirely preventable. Keeping our homes safe from fire and preventing devastating burn injuries is a healthy change we can make happen.”
By following simple safety rules, you can “Stay Fire Smart! Don’t Get Burned.”
- Keep hot foods and liquids away from tables and counter edges so they cannot be pulled or knocked over.
- Have a 3-foot “kid-free” zone around the stove.
- Never hold a child in your arms while preparing hot food or drinking a hot beverage.
- Be careful when using things that get hot such as curling irons, oven, irons, lamps, heaters.
- Install tamper-resistant receptacles to prevent a child from sticking an object in the outlet.
- Never leave a child alone in a room with a lit candle, portable heater, lit fireplace or stove, or where a hot appliance might be in use.
- Wear short or close-fitting sleeves when cooking.
- Set your hot water temperature no higher than 120 degrees.
- Install anti-scald valves on shower heads and faucets.
Fire Prevention Week is actively supported by fire departments across the country. For 85 years fire departments have observed Fire Prevention Week, making it the longest running public health and safety observance on record.
Have a Fire Safe Day,
Tim Cramblit, Chief
Central Cascades Fire &
THE POLST REGISTRY (physician orders for life-sustaining treatment)
POLST (physician orders for life-sustaining treatment) are more easily recognized as Advance Directives. Indeed when one is checked into a medical facility, that facility is required to ask if you have a signed directive with you or if your physician or the hospital has one in their records. The POLST form serves as your advance directive with the option to register it.
In 2008 the Registry project began in response to a need expressed by Emergency Medical Services. Why? It is not unusual for pre-hospital personnel to arrive at a scene where these signed orders are not readily available and, family members determine at that time what should or should not be done in the care of their loved one. The law supersedes the family wishes. In May of 2009, a “pilot” of the Oregon POLST Registry was initiated in Clackamas County.
Consequently with the establishment of the Registry, EMS now has access on a 24/7 basis to call and obtain that patient’s Advance Directives. It should be noted that information in the Registry is protected and confidential.
The legislation became law on July 1, 2009 and implementation of the statewide Registry in all Oregon communities was anticipated for December 1, 2009. In January of 2010, our District received the appropriate phone numbers and fax number to access the agency.
Please note that no one is required to have a POLST form and patients may opt out of the Registry. However, if they do not opt out their form must be submitted to the Registry. It is the responsibility of Primary Health Care Professionals (Physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants) to submit the form or cause it to be submitted.
Information for this article has been taken from Chapter 333, Division 270 of the Oregon Administrative Rules.
Sally Carlson R.N. EMT-B
EMS Coordinator/ CCF&EMS
THE POLST REGISTRY (physician orders for life-sustaining treatment)
POLST (physician orders for life-sustaining treatment) are more easily recognized as Advance Directives. Indeed when one is checked into a medical facility, that facility is required to ask if you have a signed directive with you or if your physician or the hospital has one in their records. The POLST form serves as your advance directive with the option to register it.
In 2008 the Registry project began in response to a need expressed by Emergency Medical Services. Why? It is not unusual for pre-hospital personnel to arrive at a scene where these signed orders are not readily available and, family members determine at that time what should or should not be done in the care of their loved one. The law supersedes the family wishes. In May of 2009, a “pilot” of the Oregon POLST Registry was initiated in Clackamas County.
Consequently with the establishment of the Registry, EMS now has access on a 24/7 basis to call and obtain that patient’s Advance Directives. It should be noted that information in the Registry is protected and confidential.
The legislation became law on July 1, 2009 and implementation of the statewide Registry in all Oregon communities was anticipated for December 1, 2009. In January of 2010, our District received the appropriate phone numbers and fax number to access the agency.
Please note that no one is required to have a POLST form and patients may opt out of the Registry. However, if they do not opt out their form must be submitted to the Registry. It is the responsibility of Primary Health Care Professionals (Physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants) to submit the form or cause it to be submitted.
Information for this article has been taken from Chapter 333, Division 270 of the Oregon Administrative Rules.
Sally Carlson R.N. EMT-B
EMS Coordinator/ CCF&EMS
THE POLST REGISTRY (physician orders for life-sustaining treatment)
THE POLST REGISTRY (physician orders for life-sustaining treatment)
POLST (physician orders for life-sustaining treatment) are more easily recognized as Advance Directives. Indeed when one is checked into a medical facility, that facility is required to ask if you have a signed directive with you or if your physician or the hospital has one in their records. The POLST form serves as your advance directive with the option to register it.
In 2008 the Registry project began in response to a need expressed by Emergency Medical Services. Why? It is not unusual for pre-hospital personnel to arrive at a scene where these signed orders are not readily available and, family members determine at that time what should or should not be done in the care of their loved one. The law supersedes the family wishes. In May of 2009, a “pilot” of the Oregon POLST Registry was initiated in Clackamas County.
POLST (physician orders for life-sustaining treatment) are more easily recognized as Advance Directives. Indeed when one is checked into a medical facility, that facility is required to ask if you have a signed directive with you or if your physician or the hospital has one in their records. The POLST form serves as your advance directive with the option to register it.
In 2008 the Registry project began in response to a need expressed by Emergency Medical Services. Why? It is not unusual for pre-hospital personnel to arrive at a scene where these signed orders are not readily available and, family members determine at that time what should or should not be done in the care of their loved one. The law supersedes the family wishes. In May of 2009, a “pilot” of the Oregon POLST Registry was initiated in Clackamas County.
In 2008 the Registry project began in response to a need expressed by Emergency Medical Services. Why? It is not unusual for pre-hospital personnel to arrive at a scene where these signed orders are not readily available and, family members determine at that time what should or should not be done in the care of their loved one. The law supersedes the family wishes. In May of 2009, a “pilot” of the Oregon POLST Registry was initiated in Clackamas County.
Consequently with the establishment of the Registry, EMS now has access on a 24/7 basis to call and obtain that patient’s Advance Directives. It should be noted that information in the Registry is protected and confidential.
Consequently with the establishment of the Registry, EMS now has access on a 24/7 basis to call and obtain that patient’s Advance Directives. It should be noted that information in the Registry is protected and confidential.
Consequently with the establishment of the Registry, EMS now has access on a 24/7 basis to call and obtain that patient’s Advance Directives. It should be noted that information in the Registry is protected and confidential.
Consequently with the establishment of the Registry, EMS now has access on a 24/7 basis to call and obtain that patient’s Advance Directives. It should be noted that information in the Registry is protected and confidential.
Consequently with the establishment of the Registry, EMS now has access on a 24/7 basis to call and obtain that patient’s Advance Directives. It should be noted that information in the Registry is protected and confidential.
Consequently with the establishment of the Registry, EMS now has access on a 24/7 basis to call and obtain that patient’s Advance Directives. It should be noted that information in the Registry is protected and confidential.
Consequently with the establishment of the Registry, EMS now has access on a 24/7 basis to call and obtain that patient’s Advance Directives. It should be noted that information in the Registry is protected and confidential.
Consequently with the establishment of the Registry, EMS now has access on a 24/7 basis to call and obtain that patient’s Advance Directives. It should be noted that information in the Registry is protected and confidential.
Consequently with the establishment of the Registry, EMS now has access on a 24/7 basis to call and obtain that patient’s Advance Directives. It should be noted that information in the Registry is protected and confidential.
The legislation became law on July 1, 2009 and implementation of the statewide Registry in all Oregon communities was anticipated for December 1, 2009. In January of 2010, our District received the appropriate phone numbers and fax number to access the agency.
The legislation became law on July 1, 2009 and implementation of the statewide Registry in all Oregon communities was anticipated for December 1, 2009. In January of 2010, our District received the appropriate phone numbers and fax number to access the agency.
The legislation became law on July 1, 2009 and implementation of the statewide Registry in all Oregon communities was anticipated for December 1, 2009. In January of 2010, our District received the appropriate phone numbers and fax number to access the agency.
The legislation became law on July 1, 2009 and implementation of the statewide Registry in all Oregon communities was anticipated for December 1, 2009. In January of 2010, our District received the appropriate phone numbers and fax number to access the agency.
The legislation became law on July 1, 2009 and implementation of the statewide Registry in all Oregon communities was anticipated for December 1, 2009. In January of 2010, our District received the appropriate phone numbers and fax number to access the agency.
The legislation became law on July 1, 2009 and implementation of the statewide Registry in all Oregon communities was anticipated for December 1, 2009. In January of 2010, our District received the appropriate phone numbers and fax number to access the agency.
The legislation became law on July 1, 2009 and implementation of the statewide Registry in all Oregon communities was anticipated for December 1, 2009. In January of 2010, our District received the appropriate phone numbers and fax number to access the agency.
The legislation became law on July 1, 2009 and implementation of the statewide Registry in all Oregon communities was anticipated for December 1, 2009. In January of 2010, our District received the appropriate phone numbers and fax number to access the agency.
The legislation became law on July 1, 2009 and implementation of the statewide Registry in all Oregon communities was anticipated for December 1, 2009. In January of 2010, our District received the appropriate phone numbers and fax number to access the agency.
The legislation became law on July 1, 2009 and implementation of the statewide Registry in all Oregon communities was anticipated for December 1, 2009. In January of 2010, our District received the appropriate phone numbers and fax number to access the agency.
The legislation became law on July 1, 2009 and implementation of the statewide Registry in all Oregon communities was anticipated for December 1, 2009. In January of 2010, our District received the appropriate phone numbers and fax number to access the agency.
Information for this article has been taken from Chapter 333, Division 270 of the Oregon Administrative Rules.
Information for this article has been taken from Chapter 333, Division 270 of the Oregon Administrative Rules.
Sally Carlson R.N. EMT-B
Sally Carlson R.N. EMT-B
Sally Carlson R.N. EMT-B
EMS Coordinator/ CCF&EMS
EMS Coordinator/ CCF&EMS
Oregonians are reminded to have smoke alarms on every level of their home, outside each sleeping area and in every bedroom. Test your smoke alarms monthly. Replace smoke alarms that are 8-10 years old. For more information on home fire safety visit: http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/CommEd_FireSafety_Program.shtml
STATE FIRE MARSHAL URGES WINTER HEATING SAFETY
News Release from: Oregon State Fire Marshal Posted: November 5th, 2009 10:44 AM
State Fire Marshal Randy Simpson is urging Oregonians to be fire safe and use caution when heating homes this winter.
From 2004 through 2008 in Oregon there were 2,899 home heating-related fires resulting in 12 deaths, 85 injuries, and more than $42 million in property loss. These heating-related fires also resulted in 34 injuries to firefighters.
"Homeowners need to have the chimneys and flues on their fireplace and woodstoves cleaned and inspected annually," said State Fire Marshal Randy Simpson. "Also be sure to give heaters their space, keeping them three feet away from combustible materials."
Oregonians can keep themselves safe by following these home heating safety tips:
Fireplaces and Woodstoves
• Have chimney and woodstove flues inspected and cleaned each year by a qualified chimney sweep. Ask them to check for creosote deposits, soot build-up, or physical damage.
• Always use a fireplace screen. Make sure the screen is made of sturdy metal or heat-tempered glass to prevent sparks from escaping.
• Keep a clutter free environment. Store kindling, fire logs, and wood at least three feet from any heat source.
• Dispose of ashes in a metal container and place the container outdoors at least three feet from anything flammable. Ashes may retain heat for days after they appear out.
Portable Space Heaters
• When using portable heaters make sure they come with an automatic tip-over switch and a high temperature limit switch. The tip-over switch turns the heater off if it is knocked over. The high temperature limit switch regulates the heater preventing it from overheating.
• Give heaters space. Keep at least three feet of space between the heater and combustibles such as furniture, curtains, papers, and people.
• Check heater electrical cords. If the cord is frayed, cracked, or becomes hot have it serviced.
• Never use extension cords with portable electric heaters. It can overload the circuit and cause a fire.
• Unplug heaters when not in use or before going to bed.
Electric baseboard and wall heaters
• Be aware of electric baseboard or wall heaters. These heaters are thermostatically controlled and turn on without warning when temperatures drop. Keep combustibles at least three feet from these types of heaters.
Propane appliances
• If using a propane-fueled heater, make sure it is designed for indoor use. Read all of the manufacturer's instructions and make sure it is properly vented.
• Do not use barbecues indoors for heating or cooking.
• Make sure propane-fueled appliances are properly vented and follow all manufacturers' instructions.
• If you smell gas, do not operate any switches, appliances, or thermostats. A spark from one of these could ignite the gas. Get everyone outside and away from the building. Shut off the gas supply. Call your propane supplier from a neighbor's phone.
• Avoid kerosene heaters. They can emit poisonous fumes.
Smoke alarms and home escape plans
• Working smoke alarms alert you to a fire and more than double your chances of surviving a fire. In a fire, minutes could mean the difference between life and death.
• Install smoke alarms in every home, on every level, outside each sleeping area and in each bedroom.
• Test and vacuum your smoke alarms each month to make sure they are working.
• Smoke alarms 8 to 10 years old or older should be replaced.
• Make a home escape plan and practice it with your family at least twice a year.
Carbon Monoxide dangers
• Home heating and cooking equipment that burn fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, oil and methane are sources of carbon monoxide.
• Carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal if not detected early.
• If you burn one of these fuels for home heating, make sure your carbon monoxide alarm is working properly.
News Release from: Oregon State Fire Marshal STATE FIRE MARSHAL ADVISES OREGONIANS TO PRACTICE SAFETY WITH HOLIDAY DECORATIONS
Posted: December 1st, 2009 10:47 AM
State Fire Marshal Randy Simpson urges everyone to follow a few important fire safety tips to help ensure Christmas trees and other decorations are kept away from sources of heat. From 2004 through 2008 Oregon residential fires related to Christmas trees and decorative lighting resulted in nine injuries and an estimated $1.6 million in property loss. Sources of heat causing these fires included open flames, overloaded wiring, heaters, woodstoves and fireplaces.
"During the holidays, anticipated joy turns to unexpected grief and loss for those hit by residential fires," cautions Simpson. "While people love the smell and look of fresh trees and holiday decorations, this vegetation may become a serious fire hazard. Once ignited, a dry tree may be engulfed by flame in as fast as fifteen seconds and the heat will ignite other items in the room."
Remember these tree care and decoration tips:
• Choose a fresh, healthy tree with a deep-green color and flexible needles.
• Water daily. A tree may consume between a quart and a gallon of water per day.
• Place the tree at least three feet away from any heat source such as a fireplace, woodstove, heating duct or radiator.
• Keep lighted candles away from the tree.
• Use only non-combustible or flame resistant materials to trim a tree.
• Always unplug tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
• If using a woodstove or fireplace, keep it screened at all times. Keep ribbons, boughs and other decorative materials at least three feet away.
• After the holiday season, promptly dispose of the tree and other greenery before it dries out. Burning a tree in a stove or fireplace is dangerous; proper disposal includes recycling or pick-up by disposal service.
General fire safety
• Make sure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home, outside each sleeping area, and in each bedroom.
• Make a home fire escape plan and practice it with the whole family.
• Keep escape routes clear of clutter so you can escape quickly in case of fire.
For more information on fire safety go to: http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/Home_Fire_Safety_Campaign.shtml.
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Contact Info: Rich Hoover 503-934-8217 or 503 370-0033, pager
Anita Horsley 503-934-8249DID I TURN OFF THE STOVE?
Central cascades Fire & EMS wants you to make sure that the stove burner is turned off or the damaged electrical cord you’ve been meaning to fix is your top priority during Fire Prevention Week, October 4-10. The theme of this year’s campaign, “Stay Fire Smart! Don’t Get Burned,” focuses on preventing the leading causes of home fires – cooking, heating and electrical equipment, and smoking materials in addition to burn prevention.
Statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), indicate that there were an estimated 399,000 reported home structure fires in 2007, resulting in almost 2,900 deaths.
While the statistics are daunting, most home fires are easily preventable when we narrow our focus and take personal steps to increase our safety. One way to do this is by proactively combing through each room in your home to find signs of danger and fix them. Central Cascades Fire & EMS is encouraging everyone to put their safety first by performing a home hazards inspection during Fire Prevention Week. You can download a checklist at www.firepreventionweek.org.
There are also a number of simple steps that you can put into action to keep your home fire safe:
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Burns:
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Cooking: Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period time, turn off the stove.
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Heating: Keep all things that can burn, such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.
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Electrical: Replace cracked and damaged electrical cords; use extension cords for temporary wiring only. Consider having additional circuits or receptacles added by a qualified electrician.
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Smoking: If you smoke, smoke outside; wherever you smoke, use deep, sturdy ashtrays.
As firefighters, fire prevention is always on our minds. We hope that you use the checklist and fire prevention tips to put your safety first during Fire Prevention Week, and year-round.
REMINDER: If you do not have a working Smoke Alarm in your residence, contact us for a free battery powered Smoke Alarm, while supplies last.
Have a Fire Safe Day,
Tim Cramblit, Chief
Central Cascades Fire &
Safety Makes Everyone Number 1
Fire Safety and Prevention:
Changes today reduce wildfire risks tomorrow
Summers in Oregon are typically hot and dry creating a risky wildfire season. Walker Range encourages home and property owners to take steps to increase the fire resistance of their structures and land.
Fire loss is responsible for 23% of all insured homeowner property claims,says R.D. Buell. "That's why Walker Range encourages you to be active in your local community wildland fire risk reduction efforts to ensure what you do today protects your home and dreams for tomorrow.
Increasing fire resistance on and around the home in-cludes;
* Covering all vents (roof or foundation) with a fine mesh screen (1/8th inch)to prevent sparks or embers from blowing in or under your home,
*Roofing with fire resistant materials such as tile, com-position shingles or metal,
* Keeping flammable materials away from any propane, oil or fuel tanks.
*Keeping needles and leaves from your home’s roof and rain gutters; needles and leaves in your gutter can ignite easily and quickly spread fire to your home.
* Raking and removing flammable debris such as dead grass, pine or fir needles from around your home and out-buildings.
Keeping flammable materials away from wooden decks or walkways, fire has been known to slowly burn the length of a deck or porch to ignite a home.
*Replacing flammable deck furniture with noncombustible furniture,
* Storing firewood at least 30 feet away from your home; woodpiles cause a very intense fire.
* If you have a wooden fence attached to your house, consider replacing with non-combustible fencing material.
A wooden fence can act as a wick and start your house on fire.
All in Oregon share in the responsibility to lessen the likelihood of damage from wildfire. We’re all partners in Wildfire Prevention
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