February 2005 Fire Calls & Safety Tip of the Month

Madisonville Volunteer Fire Department responded to 11 calls during the month of February 2005. Three of these calls were within the city limits of Madisonville, and eight of them were out in the county. Of those calls, four were grass fire calls, one was a structure fire call, one was a vehicle fire call, three were wrecks, one was a lifeflight, and one was classified as an other type call. Volunteers also attended two drills during the month of January, focusing on water shuttling.

RED HOT SAFETY TIP OF THE MONTH:
We talked last month about burning outdoors, and I've got more information for you this month!! (Please check last month's posting to see how to tell if there is a current burn ban in the county.)

Once you determine that the items you wish to burn are not of more value if they are not burned, such as grass clippings, leaves, or recycleable items, you will then need to plan your controlled burn. Here's where our firefighters can help you! If you would like a firefighter to assist in planning your burn, please call Shelly at 936-348-3317 and request their services. If you wish to plan it on your own, please use caution, and:

1. Know WHAT you're burning.

2. Know HOW FAST it will burn.

3. Know HOW MUCH smoke it will produce.

4. Know IF the smoke is toxic.

5. Know the DIRECTION of the wind, how far the smoke will travel, and will it cross or block a roadway.

6. Secure the PERIMETER of the fire, making sure it is not within 50 feet of any building or structure.

7. Have a WATER SOURCE available to wet the perimeter of the fire area and in case the fire begins to spread or get out of control.

8. Have access to a TELEPHONE to call the Sheriff's Office and advise when you will begin burning and keep the phone close in case you need to call for help.

As always, feel free to call upon our fire service for help in controlled burns, fire prevention, or any other fire protection related issue. We're here for you!!