The Moline Fire Department is participating in the “Keep the Wreath Red” campaign, reminding everyone to stay fire-safe this holiday season.
Through Jan. 2, 2025, wreaths with red lights will be displayed at all four Moline fire stations. The goal is to keep each bulb red – if a preventable fire occurs in Moline during the campaign then a red bulb will be replaced with a white one.
Through this initiative, the Moline Fire Department aims to remind the community to practice everyday fire safety measures.
“Simple actions like testing smoke alarms and using space heaters properly can have a significant impact on preventing fires and saving lives during the holiday season,” Fire Marshal Mitch Cunningham said. “Smoke alarms are your first line of defense, providing early warning and precious time to escape in the event of a fire.”
He added that the fire department installs smoke detectors in Moline residents’ homes for free year-round. Requests can be made at //www.bit.ly/molinesmokealarm.
The holiday season should be filled with joy and warmth, not tragedy. This campaign is a reminder that a single moment of carelessness can turn celebration into heartbreak.
The department offers these fire safety tips:
- Test your smoke alarms and CO alarms: Ensure all alarms are working and have fresh batteries or are 10-year sealed powered. Place them in key areas near the kitchen, laundry room and sleeping areas.
- Service your furnace: A professional inspection each year is worth it for your safety and peace of mind.
- Inspect chimneys and vents: Creosote buildup in fireplaces is a fire hazard. If you light fires often, schedule a chimney sweep annually. Use only dry, seasoned wood to minimize smoke and maximize warmth.
- Use a fireplace screen: A tempered glass or metal screen keeps sparks contained. Always ensure kids and pets stay at least three feet away from the fire.
- Smoking Materials: Please ensure you completely extinguish smoking materials and dispose of them in an approved receptacle.
- Handle Candles with Care: Never leave them unattended or within reach of children and pets. Consider battery-operated alternatives for a safer glow.
- Give space to space heaters: Keep them three feet away from people, pets, curtains or any flammable materials. Always turn them off when leaving the room or going to sleep. Additionally, ensure your space heaters are UL-listed and feature tip-over protection.
- Be ready for kitchen fires: Water can make grease fires worse. Keep pot lids nearby to smother flames quickly.
- Plan and practice your escape route: Just like workplaces have fire drills, your family should too. Practice crawling low to avoid smoke, and teach everyone how to “stop, drop and roll” in case clothing catches fire.
