With longer days and warmer weather, now is a great time to get rid of any extra trash: from boxes, to unused clothing and other combustibles that can start a fire.
Spring also means tornado season. Make sure you know the difference between a watch and a warning. Check out the KCEMA page to learn more. Sign up for CodeRED alerts!
GRILLING SEASON:
Keep children and pets away from your grill. Have a 3 foot "kid-free zone" around the grill to prevent fires and burns.
- Use propane, charcoal and wood pellet barbecue grills outdoors only. Indoor use can cause a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Place your grill well away from siding and deck railing and out from under eaves or overhanging branches.
- Do not store or use a grill on a porch or balcony
- Grilling safety video
FIRES: Keep your fire pits, outdoor fireplaces and torches at least 10 feet from your home or anything that can burn.
SWIMMING: Never swim near a boat, marina or boat launching ramp. Use US Coast Guard approved life safety jackets. Always swim with a buddy. Never leave children unsupervised around water.
FIREWORKS: Every fourth of July, thousands of people, mostly minors are injured while using consumer fireworks. Despite the dangers, few people understand the risks associated with them: severe burns, fires and death. Please use caution when around fireworks. If you want to see fireworks, go to a public show put on by experts.
The Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board put together a video on Christmas Tree Safety.