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July 2015
Quarterly communications from your Johns Creek Fire Department
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Dear Residents,
Now that summer is in full swing, be sure to keep fire safety in mind when planning your outdoor season activities. Grilling and fireworks are fun warm weather traditions but they also account for thousands of fires and injuries each year. Learn the associated risks when spending time outdoors.
Don't forget to get the kids involved in fire safety. The National Fire Protection Association's Sparky the Fire DogŪ provides online activities, games and cartoons for children to learn the importance of fire safety.
If you're planning to spend any time on the Chattahoochee River this summer, remember to check the schedule of water releases from the Buford Dam. The JCFD's Swift Water Rescue Team is trained to respond to emergencies on the river. Read below to learn more about the department's new, custom-made rescue/recovery boat.
And, save the date for our annual "Community Safety Day" event Oct. 3 in the Home Depot/Target parking lot (5950 State Bridge Road). Safety demonstrations and activities will be available for the whole family. Stay safe, Fire Chief Jeff Hogan
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JCFD improves insurance rating for homeowners, businesses
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The new, much-improved fire rating for Johns Creek homeowners is in effect July 1. Improvements in fire protection by JCFD led a private rating company to substantially lower the city's fire insurance rating, saving homeowners citywide an estimated $6 million a year in premiums.
The Insurance Service Office, (ISO) a private, non-profit company that grades fire departments nationally, has reduced Johns Creek's ratings Class 4/9 rating in 2010 to an overall rating of 2 on a scale of 10. Read more.
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Celebrate the Fourth of July safely
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Even though a new state law allows fireworks to be sold statewide starting July 1, Johns Creek Fire Department officials say it's safer to attend fireworks displays conducted by professionals.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), consumer fireworks - including sparklers - can reach more than 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to cause third-degree burns. In 2012, fireworks caused an estimated 15,500 reported fires and resulted in an estimated 8,700 injuries, most of which were burns, according to the NFPA.
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Stay safe on the Chattahoochee River
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During the summer, the Johns Creek Fire Department Swift Water Rescue Team responds several times a month to emergency calls to rescue people from the cold waters of the Chattahoochee River.
Stay safe by paying attention to the Buford Dam
water release schedule and watch the JCFD's water safety video for more information on how you and your family can stay safe around water this summer.
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JCFD debuts new rescue boat
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The Johns Creek Fire Department showed off their new custom-made rescue/recovery boat on the Chattahoochee River in June.
The boat is more maneuverable, more versatile and more powerful than the previous craft and should help JCFD in their efforts to save people in trouble on the river.
The rescue/recovery boat has a 200 horse power jet drive motor, which will result in faster response times. It also has an advanced sonar unit, removable hoist and a robust lighting package for night and fog operations.
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Hosting summer outdoor activities means an increased risk of fire
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Warm weather brings food on the grill and friends and family gathered in the backyard or around the pool. Hosting outdoor activities can also increase the risk of home fires.
Consider following some simple safety tips and guidelines to ensure you and your family are safe when hosting your next outdoor event.
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Outdoor Burn Ban ends Sept. 30
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Georgia's Outdoor Burn Ban is in effect through Sept. 30. The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) imposes a ban on outdoor burning to comply with Federal Clean Air Regulations.
The ozone in the air we breathe can reach unhealthy levels during summer months and open burning has been identified as a significant contributor of the pollutants that form ozone.
Even when allowed, residents need to get approval through the Fire Department prior to any burning being allowed.
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Save the date for Community Safety Day, Oct. 3
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The Johns Creek Fire & Police departments will perform several safety demonstrations as part of "Community Safety Day" on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at State Bridge Corners Shopping Center, (Home Depot & Target parking lots), 5950 State Bridge Road, Johns Creek.
Community Safety Day, a precursor to Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 4-10), helps heighten awareness about basic safety issues. Read more.
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Follow JCFD on Facebook and Twitter
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Want to learn safety tips, view photos of fire training and more? Be sure to follow the Johns Creek Fire Department on Facebook and Twitter!
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Question of the Quarter: How often should you replace your smoke alarm?
Answer: Every 10 years. Read some important information from the National Fire Protection Association on smoke alarms.
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