Four Red Bulbs Placed After First Day of "Keep the Wreath Green"

Escambia County Fire Rescue has placed four red bulbs on the wreaths after the first day of "Keep the Wreath Green" following the multi-residential structure fire that displaced a total of eight residents in Escambia County.

At 5:55 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 1, Escambia County Fire Rescue units T2, T11, E18, SQ14, E4, S2, CF2, S1 and BC9 responded to a multi-residential structure fire at the 1400 block of E. Johnson Ave. Upon arrival, units noticed flames and smoke coming from the left side of the two-story apartment complex. Crews began applying water on the fire, bringing the flames under control by 6:57 a.m. Fortunately, there we no injuries or fatalities, however, eight residents have been displaced. They have been assisted by the American Red Cross. The eight residents together lived in four separate units, resulting in the four red bulbs.

After further investigation, the fire stemmed from a fireplace inside one of the units. NAS Pensacola Fire, Pace Fire Rescue District, Pensacola Fire Department and Gulf Power provided assistance.

If your home does not have a working smoke detector, please call Escambia County Fire Rescue at 850-595-HERO (4376) or 850-436-5200 for city of Pensacola residents.

The “Keep the Wreath Green” fire safety campaign is a collaborative initiative with the city of Pensacola to promote fire safety during the month of December. During the month-long campaign, five-foot wreaths are on display at 21 county fire stations and five city fire stations, as well as Escambia County's Ernie Lee Magaha Government Building downtown, the Escambia County Public Safety Building and Pensacola City Hall. Each time firefighters respond to a residential fire with damage, a green light bulb will be replaced with a red one to remind citizens of the dangers posed by fires in residential home. For more tips on how to stay safe during the holiday season, visit myescambia.com/KeepTheWreathGreen.

Safety Tips: 

Escambia County Fire Rescue encourages everyone to practice fire safety especially during the holiday season. Residents are encouraged to follow these safety tips so everyone can have a safe and happy holiday:

• Remember to blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
• Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep.
• Remember to check the wires of appliances regularly and to replace or repair frayed, damages cables.
• Unplug all small electrical appliances, such as irons and toasters when not in use.
• Check smoke detectors regularly to make sure they are working properly.
• Communicate an escape plan to other members of the household in the event of a fire.

For fire safety tips and other updates from Escambia County Fire Rescue, like Escambia County Fire Rescue on Facebook.




(Pictures taken from the E. Johnson Avenue fire)