Prevention 52 fire helmet
September 2012

JUST FOR YOU

 

Employees

Follow the recommendations listed under "Take Action."

 

View the Historic Pine Creek Quarters Fire FlashBack for more information on the fire at Zion National Park.

 

Download a home heating safety fact sheet from the National Fire Protection Association.

 

Park Leadership

Evaluate the use of firewood in your park and determine guidelines for proper storage locations.

 

Ensure all fireplaces, wood stoves, and chimneys are cleaned and inspected annually and make any necessary repairs prior to use.

What is Prevention 52?

 

Its intent is to educate and empower all NPS employees to help prevent structural fires.

 

It is a relevant fire prevention message every week of the year...

52 to be exact!

 

You have an opportunity every week to make a difference!
Don't let historic ashes be your legacy...
Prevention 52 begins with you! 
The Structural Fire Program has put together many resources to help you provide an effective fire prevention program in your park.
 
Visit our web site at :
For more fire prevention resources go to:

 

Previous P52 messages can be accessed at:

Prevention 52

 

Submit your ideas and feedback about Prevention 52 to: [email protected]

 

P52 Editor: Kathy Komatz

 

Structural Fire is one of six branches within the NPS Division of Fire and Aviation Management. Join us at: www.nps.gov/fire to learn more.

Wood fire in a fireplace   

Fall is a wonderful time of year. Curling up in front of a roaring fire or heating the house with a warm wood stove definitely adds enjoyment to cooler days.

Light My Fire (But read this first)
Eric Anderson, Structural Fire Training Specialist  
 

In many park structures, wood stoves and fireplaces serve as the primary heat source, creating an ambience and underscoring an appreciation for the Service's natural and historical roots. But to completely enjoy a fire, we need to ensure we are taking the proper safety measures to keep our families, visitors, and beautiful historic structures safe from the dangers associated with these fires.

 

Each year over 60,000 home fires are caused by home heating equipment, resulting in approximately 500 deaths per year. Use the following fireplace and wood stove safety tips to avoid becoming one of the statistics.

TAKE ACTION! 

 

If you use a fireplace or wood stove, follow these safety measures:

  • Leave 36" of clearance between the wood stove and combustible surfaces.
  • Inspect chimneys annually and clean them, if necessary, especially if the fireplace or wood stove has not been used in a long time.
  • Never use flammable liquids, like lighter fluid, to start any indoor fires.
  • Keep a glass or metal screen in front of fireplace openings to prevent embers or sparks from igniting fires outside of the fireplace or burns to occupants.
  • Keep flammable materials away from your mantel.
  • Before going to sleep or leaving the house, ensure the fire is completely out.
  • If using synthetic logs, follow the directions on the package.
  • Dispose of ashes in a metal can and then store the can at least 20 feet away from the home or other structures. Never store the can in a garage or under a carport where the heat from the ashes can re-ignite several days after a fire.
  • Store firewood a good distance from buildings and other structures.
  • Ensure your home has working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
NPS Fire Facts

On December 16, 2007, a stone cabin, used for employee housing in Zion National Park, caught fire due to a

wood stove. The resident started a fire in the wood stove that morning and later noticed smoke coming from the eaves. As it turned out, an old, damaged chimney flue allowed the fire to spread to the attic space. A quick and effective response by the park engine company extinguished the fire before major damage occurred; the structure, a historical building built in 1928, was saved along with many of the employee's possessions.

 

Firewood stored on the covered porch of a park residence in Badlands National Park caught fire, causing damage to the porch. Fortunately, other residents and members of the park's engine company noticed the fire and alerted the residents to the danger. The park's well-trained engine company quickly knocked down the flames and ultimately saved the home.

You have an opportunity every week to make a difference!  

Don't let historic ashes be your legacy...
Prevention 52 begins with you!
 

Sincerely

 

NPS Branch of Structural Fire