SPOKANE FIRE DEPARTMENT OFFERS SAFETY TIPS AHEAD OF MEMORIAL WEEKEND

 

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SPOKANE FIRE DEPARTMENT OFFERS SAFETY TIPS AHEAD OF MEMORIAL WEEKEND
HELP TO AVOID A HOLIDAY TRAGEDY

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The Spokane Fire Department (SFD) wants to stress the importance of safety so residents can avoid a holiday weekend tragedy.

 

“Memorial Weekend is often the unofficial start of summer for many families and community members,” Assistant Fire Chief Brian Schaeffer. “Whether traveling, grilling, or enjoying our beautiful area, we want people to have a great holiday weekend, but we want to also stress following a few safety precautions to help avoid a holiday tragedy.”

 

Water safety precautions: 

 

The Spokane River along with many area creeks and streams have faster currents, higher water levels, and extremely cold water temperatures. Visitors must be cautious as an outing can easily turn deadly.

 

·         The safest decision may be to not enter the water. Think about the risks when swimming, boating, inner tubing or rafting due to dangers from currents, logs, log jams and cold temperatures.

·         Avoid prolonged exposure to cold water which can lead to hypothermia. Hypothermia can incapacitate anyone, overcoming their swimming skills and ultimately lead to drowning. Hypothermia occurs when the body’s core temperature is dramatically lowered. Among other results, there is a loss of strength and muscular coordination as well as mental confusion and often erratic behavior.

·         Make sure children are under constant supervision regardless of a child’s swimming skill level or depth of water. If near a river or a lake make sure to keep them away from the banks where they can easily fall in, or where erosion can result in the bank collapsing. The use of flotation devices and inflatable toys cannot replace parental/caregiver supervision

·         If you see someone fall into the river or drowning, immediately call 9-1-1. DO NOT attempt a rescue by entering the water. A rope or flotation device such as an inflated toy or sports ball, or even a Styrofoam ice chest can be thrown to the victim to assist them.

·         All swimmers, boaters, rafters, and kayakers should wear approved personal floatation devices and necessary safety protection (e.g. helmets, shoes, thermal protection). 

·         Never use alcohol or other impairing drugs during water and boating activities or while supervising children around the water.

 

Grilling safety tips:

 

·         Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.

·         Place grills well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

·         Keep children and pets away from the grill area.

·         A gas or charcoal grill should not be used on any porch or balcony.

·         Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.

·         Never leave your grill unattended.

 

 

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Michele Anderson | Public Safety Communications Manager
Spokane Police Department | Spokane Fire Department

cell 509.742.0063 | office 509.622.5868 |mlanderson@spokanecity.org