Crime & Safety
PHOTOS: Central Fire Holds Open House for Fire Prevention Week
Safety, prevention and preparation were addressed for a number of emergencies.
The Central Fire District Station on 17th Avenue in Live Oak was filled with trucks and fire safety information in honor of Fire Prevention Week on Sunday.
“Most fires can be prevented,” Central Fire spokesman Mike DeMars said as he offered safety tips, keeping with the theme of “Protect Your Family from Fire.” Checking that smoke alarms are properly installed and have working batteries is essential, he said.
In addition to the recommended fire extinguisher and first aid kit, DeMars stressed that families should get together, especially if they have children, to hold a fire drill to practice their emergency plan. Households should have “at least two ways out of the house,” he said, and make sure that “the second way actually works.”
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Also at the station were county paramedics including Brannon Schell, 33, a 10-year veteran of the business. The parademics had a gurney and emergency medical supplies on display.
An array of emergencies was covered by Anna Marie Gotti, 44, of Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Gotti discussed earthquakes, tsunamis and even terrorism. CERT offers six free classes a year, each on general safety and preparation tips.
