Fire Prevention Week at JBER kicks off Oct. 4

Fire Prevention Week is kicking off October 4th and we’re going to “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!TM” During this national campaign we need your assistance to educate everyone about the simple, but important, actions they can take to keep themselves, and those around them, safe in the kitchen. Specific JBER events are listed below.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), “Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Almost half (44%) of reported home fires started in the kitchen. Two-thirds (66%) of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.” Cooking is the #1 cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States, as well as the DOD. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of fires in the kitchen.

In support of Fire Prevention Week, JBER Fire Emergency Services encourages all households to follow some simple fire safety tips that may save a life or your home. Always stay in the kitchen when you are frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food. If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly and stay in the home. Always keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan, turn off the burner, and leave the pan covered until it is cool. Keep anything that can catch fire away from your stovetop and this includes loose clothing that can hang down onto stove burners and catch fire. Wear short, close-fitting, or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking. Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet (1 meter) around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried. Ensure that grills are at least 10 feet away from any structure or overhang.

If Covid-19 has you stuck at home, come by one of our drive through events that are taking place at the base Fire Stations. Sparky is giving away free goodie bags and fire helmets, and you can enter to win raffle prizes!

Events are taking place at Fire Station 2, Bldg. 5126 (Elmendorf Side near the education center), on 9 Oct. 1200-1500; Fire Station 3, Bldg. 3786 (By the BX), on 10 Oct. 0800-1100; and Fire Station 4, Bldg. 654 (Ft. Richardson Side), on 10 Oct. 1200-1500.

Remember, always call 911 in the event of an emergency, even if a fire was already extinguished. You can also contact the JBER Fire Prevention Office at 384-5555 for any fire safety questions and guidance (non-emergency). Please visit our Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/JBERFireprevention, to like and watch our safety messages and events as JBER K-6 students compete to win a prize! Your assistance in spreading the word and sharing with your family could very possibly prevent an injury or save a life.