As Escambia County progresses into Spring and prepares for the warmer Summer months ahead, Escambia County Fire Rescue encourages residents to have functioning smoke detectors and ensure their homes are storm-ready heading into the 2023 hurricane season.
Throughout the spring and summer months, ECFR has responded to several weather-related residential structure fires and wildfires. Weather-related fires include lightning strikes to a home or wildfires due to dry, windy conditions.
One of the best ways residents can better prepare themselves in the event of a natural disaster at their home is to have functioning smoke detectors in their homes. Additionally, residents are encouraged to create and practice an escape plan if a fire occurs.
"ECFR reminds our citizens that severe weather can strike quickly. Citizens should remain alert to rapidly changing weather conditions and monitor local TV and radio stations for weather updates," said Fire and Life Specialist Ray Melton. "Watches and warnings do not have to be issued for lightning to directly strike a home. Citizens should never be outside during a thunderstorm and know where to shelter in their homes and how to escape in the event of a storm-related fire."
Residents are also encouraged to stock up on batteries and flashlights and avoid using candles to light a home in the event of a power outage. Residents that use a generator to power their home during a power outage are encouraged to find a dry outdoor place to power the generator. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, never use a generator indoors.
Learn more weather-related safety tips from FEMA and the U.S. Fire Administration here.
Escambia County Fire Rescue proudly operates as a combination fire service, utilizing the talents and diversities of volunteer and career firefighting personnel. Career personnel operate in 14 stations throughout the county. 13 stations work a 48/96-hour shift, and two stations work Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteer firefighters operate out of numerous stations throughout Escambia County. Escambia County Fire Rescue also provides other emergency services such as hazardous materials response, special operations and ALS non-transport. Learn more about how to join Escambia County Fire Rescue. Follow Escambia County Fire Rescue on Facebook.
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