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SCPFD would like to congratulate our 2023 Firefighter of the Year Firefighter Blake Parnell

Firefighter Parnell was nominated for his selflessness, positive attitude, and willingness to help others succeed. His supervisors praised him as a self-starter, a mentor to new employees, skilled in EMS, and one who fosters strong morale. His peers outlined his positive attitude in daily duties, efforts in charitable events and community relations, and selflessness. Firefighter Parnell was commended over and over for helping others achieve their goals and for giving his time both on and off duty to ensure his fellow firefighters’ success.

SCPFD would like to congratulate our 2023 District Employee of the Year Fire Inspector Aaron Stritenberger.

Inspector Stritenberger was nominated for his continuous effort and commitment to the success of our Fire Prevention Division. Stritenberger has grown professionally throughout his career with advancements in his education and certifications, including working towards his Fire Investigator Certification. In the past year he has been invaluable in the successful implementation of the new fire inspection software and has taken on a larger role in new construction inspections.

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As you get ready for your spring break adventure, it’s important to think about staying safe, even when you’re away from home. Fire safety is super important no matter where you go. So, whether you’re hitting the road, taking a flight, or heading to a new destination, here are some easy tips to keep in mind:

1. Make Sure Where You Stay is Fire Safe: When you arrive at your hotel, Airbnb, or rental home, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the fire safety features. Locate emergency exits, the fire extinguishers, and smoke alarms. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask the staff or property owner.
2. Know Your Escape Routes: Take a moment to identify emergency exits and escape routes where you are staying. Plan how you and your family would exit in case of a fire. Establish a meeting point outside where everyone can gather safely.
3. Pack a Mini Emergency Kit: It’s always a good idea to be prepared. Pack a small emergency kit with essentials like a flashlight, batteries, first-aid supplies, and a portable phone charger. You never know when you might need them, especially in an unfamiliar place.
4. Be Cautious with Cooking Appliances: If you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen, take care when using cooking appliances like stoves, ovens, and microwaves. Follow the instructions carefully, and never leave cooking unattended. Keep flammable items like dish towels and curtains away from heat sources.
5. Practice Electrical Safety: Before plugging in any devices or chargers, inspect the outlets and cords for any signs of damage. Avoid overloading electrical sockets, and never leave devices charging unattended, especially overnight.
6. Stay Informed About Fire Risks: If you’re traveling to a destination known for wildfires or other fire hazards, stay updated on local fire safety advisories and regulations. Be cautious when exploring natural areas and follow all guidelines to prevent accidental fires.
7. Keep Fire Extinguishers Accessible: Familiarize yourself with the location of fire extinguishers where you are staying. If you encounter a small fire that you can safely extinguish, use the appropriate fire extinguisher following the PASS technique: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side.
8. Report Safety Concerns Promptly: If you notice any fire hazards or safety concerns where you are staying, such as blocked exits or malfunctioning smoke alarms, report them to the property management immediately.

Remember, your safety is the top priority during your spring break adventures. By following these simple fire safety tips, you can enjoy a worry-free trip and make unforgettable memories. Have a fantastic and safe spring break!

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As spring arrives, it’s time to tidy up your home and ensure it’s safe from fires. Here’s a simple guide to add fire safety into your spring cleaning routine. First off, make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them to see if they beep loudly. If they don’t or it has been more than a year, change the batteries. Also, clean them to get rid of any dust or dirt. When you’re cleaning up, don’t forget to clear out any clutter. This includes getting rid of stuff you don’t need anymore, especially in places like the garage and attic. Keeping things neat and tidy makes it easier to get out if there’s a fire. Check your air conditioning and heating systems. Replace the filters so they work better and don’t collect dust, which could start a fire. Make sure nothing is blocking the vents, too. Clean your dryer vent regularly. Lint can build up there and catch fire easily. Take out the lint trap and clean it well. Use a brush or vacuum to clean the vent behind the dryer, too. Look at your electrical cords. If they’re damaged, replace them. Don’t plug too many things into one outlet, and use surge protectors to keep your devices safe from electrical problems. Keep chemicals like cleaners and paints in a safe place, away from heat and sunlight. Make sure the containers are sealed tightly so they don’t spill or catch fire accidentally. Plan how you and your family would escape if there’s a fire. Find two ways out of each room and pick a meeting spot outside. Practice your plan so everyone knows what to do. By following these simple steps, you can make your home safer while spring cleaning. Don’t forget to share these tips with your friends and family to keep everyone safe!