With summer in full swing, IAFF members are rolling out safety campaigns to help prevent heat-related illnesses, fires, and water accidents.
Milford, CT Local 944 is urging residents to stay alert around water, wear life jackets, keep grills away from structures, and stay hydrated.
“As a beach and boating community, Milford sees increased water-related emergencies every summer including drownings, boating accidents, and marine rescues. Combined with house fires from grilling accidents, and heat-related emergencies, prevention saves lives and reduces strain on our department resources,” said Local 944 President Ryan Laguardia.
Local 944’s outreach to raise awareness includes partnering with Milford’s Parks & Recreation Department or water and boat safety demos, fire prevention walks, smoke detector checks, and safety booths at local events.
“Our community trusts us as their safety experts,” said Laguardia, adding that “these efforts leverage our credibility and relationships in the community to reach families where they are.”
The IAFF is also reminding everyone to take precautions while enjoying outdoor summer activities.
“As the summer season kicks off, we want everyone to enjoy their time outdoors safely,” said IAFF Burn Coordinator Phil Tammaro. “Whether you’re around a campfire, using gasoline for equipment, or just spending time outside, simple precautions can prevent injuries.”
As the summer season kicks off, we want everyone to enjoy their time outdoors safely. Whether you’re around a campfire, using gasoline for equipment, or just spending time outside, simple precautions can prevent injuries.
IAFF Burn Coordinator Phil Tammaro
Tammaro says it’s important to implement safe fire-handling practices, especially around children.
“Never use accelerants like gasoline to start a fire, always cool campfires completely, and never bury them in sand, as they can stay dangerously hot for hours. Keep children well away from flames, store gasoline securely, and protect yourself and your pets from hot surfaces,” said Tammaro, adding that, “if a burn injury occurs, cool the burn, cover it, and seek medical help.”
In Newfoundland and Labrador, fire fighters are preparing for an active wildfire season, with more than 140 wildfires already reported this year. St. John’s, NL, Local 1075 Fire Prevention Officer Cara Pardy says fire crews are on alert amid the early start, which has been triggered by low winter snowfall.
“If residents live in an area that is wooded, it’s a good idea to have a bag of essentials packed and ready to go. The bag should include medications, some clothes, water, cash, and non-perishable food, and supplies for pets as well,” said Pardy.
She also cautioned against common backyard fire safety oversights.
“The most important safety tips we can share are to be mindful of where you are placing your outdoor wood burning appliance or campfire and follow your local regulations, never leave the fire unattended and ensure it is completely out before leaving it or going to bed, use a screen or spark arrestor, have a fire extinguisher, water supply and/or shovels nearby, check wind conditions prior to lighting a fire, and do not have a fire at times when there are fire bans implemented by the authorities,” said Pardy.
