Georgetown Fire Department Responds to Chimney Fire

February 8, 2018 by Jessica Sacco

Georgetown Fire Department
Fred A. Mitchell Jr., Fire Chief
47 Central Street
Georgetown, MA 01833

For Immediate Release

Thursday, Feb. 8, 2018

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Georgetown Fire Department Responds to Chimney Fire

The Georgetown Fire Department extinguished a chimney fire on Bartlett Drive. (Courtesy Photo Georgetown Fire Department)

Crews quickly extinguished the chimney fire, preventing extension into the home. (Courtesy Photo Georgetown Fire Department)

GEORGETOWN — Chief Fred Mitchell Jr. reports that the Georgetown Fire Department extinguished a chimney fire last week.

On Friday, Feb. 2, at approximately 6:30 p.m., the Georgetown Fire Department was dispatched to a residence on Bartlett Drive for a report of a chimney fire.

Engine 1, Engine 4, Ladder 1 and Car 1 responded. Upon arrival, firefighters on Engine 1 found embers and smoke emitting from the chimney.

Crews from Engine 1 then entered the residence to assess the fireplace and check for extension to the first and second floors, along with the attic. Thankfully, the fire had not extended.

Firefighters then placed a ladder up to the chimney and roof. They noticed that there was a blockage approximately 2 feet from the top of the chimney and that the flue had partially collapsed.

Crews quickly extinguished the fire and removed the blockage. No injuries were reported.

“This was a best-case scenario in terms of chimney fires in that there was no extension into the home,” Chief Mitchell said. “We’re thankful that no one was injured, and cannot stress enough the importance of completing fireplace maintenance at the start of heating season to ensure everything is in safe, working order.”

To prevent chimney fires, the Georgetown Fire Department recommends that residents:

Have your chimney flue cleaned before each heating season and burn only dry, well-seasoned, hardwood to reduce creosote accumulation.
Be sure to check the combustion chamber for damage and look for corrosion or damage to the vent before using.
Never use flammable liquids to start a fire.
Be sure that the damper of the chimney is open before lighting a fire. Failure to do so can result in an accumulation of smoke and carbon monoxide within the home. Do not close the damper before the fire has died out and the embers are cold.
Use a fireplace screen to prevent flying sparks and embers from falling out onto the floor.
Install and maintain smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
Be sure to properly dispose of ashes from chimneys and stoves. Ashes should be shoveled into a metal bucket with a metal lid, placed outside, on the ground, away from the building, to prevent fires. Do not place ashes into a paper bag or cardboard box, as ashes and embers can stay hot for days and ignite combustibles.

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Georgetown Fire Department Reminds Residents to Be Safe During Snow Storm

January 4, 2018 by Jessica Sacco

Georgetown Fire Department
Fred A. Mitchell Jr., Fire Chief
47 Central Street
Georgetown, MA 01833

For Immediate Release

Thursday, Jan. 4, 2018

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Georgetown Fire Department Reminds Residents to Be Safe During Snow Storm

GEORGETOWN — During today’s winter storm, the Georgetown Fire Department reminds residents to stay indoors and follow several important safety tips.

The National Weather Service predicts:

The region could see as much as 14 inches of snow.
Wind gusts may reach as high as 49 mph and carry with it a windchill factor of 3 below zero.
Driving conditions will likely be very poor. Significant reductions in visibility are possible with near white-out conditions for a time Thursday.
Damage to trees and power lines is possible. Power outages may occur.
Friday will likely see a high temperature of 13 degrees and a low of 4 below zero. Saturday could be even colder with a high of 7 degrees and low of 9 below zero.

WEATHERING THE STORM

The Police and Fire stations will be open throughout the storm. If you have an emergency, call 911.
Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. Give plows and sand/salt trucks the space they need to operate.
Fully charge your cell phone, laptop and any other devices.

COLD CONTINUES ON

With this type of weather, frostbite and hypothermia are possible for those without proper protection from the cold. To stay safe, the Georgetown Fire Department ask that residents follow these tips from the MEMA:

Minimize outdoor activities for the whole family, including pets.
If outside, dress in several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing instead of a single heavy layer. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent. Wear a hat, mittens (not gloves) and sturdy waterproof boots to protect your extremities. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs. •
Be a good neighbor. Check with elderly or disabled relatives and neighbors to ensure their safety
When utilizing alternate heating sources, such as an emergency generator, your fireplace, wood stove, coal stove or space heater, make sure they are properly ventilated and always operate a generator outdoors and away from your home. Improper heating devices can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup in the home.
If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Locate the area of the water pipe that might be frozen. Likely places include pipes running against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, or wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame devices. A blowtorch can make water in a frozen pipe boil and cause the pipe to explode. All open flames in homes present a serious fire danger, as well as a severe risk of exposure to lethal carbon monoxide.

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Georgetown Fire Department Offers Cold Weather Safety Tips

December 27, 2017 by Jessica Sacco

Georgetown Fire Department
Fred A. Mitchell Jr., Fire Chief
47 Central Street
Georgetown, MA 01833

For Immediate Release

Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2017

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Georgetown Fire Department Offers Cold Weather Safety Tips

GEORGETOWN — With a stretch of below freezing temperatures expected over the next several days, Chief Fred A. Mitchell Jr. and the Georgetown Fire Department would like to remind residents to follow several important safety tips.

According to the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, daytime high temperatures will likely not rise above the teens from Thursday through the weekend, and high temperatures in some inland locations may not rise above the single digits. Overnight low temperatures will likely drop below zero.

The coldest periods are forecast to be Wednesday night into Thursday morning and Thursday night into Friday morning. Another bout of especially cold wind chills is possible Saturday night into Sunday morning and Sunday night into Monday morning.

“When temperatures drop this low, the risk of fire and injury increases,” Chief Mitchell said. “It is extremely important that residents remember to properly heat their homes and check to make sure all smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working in the event of an emergency.”

With this type of weather, frostbite and hypothermia are possible for those without proper protection from the cold. To stay safe, the Georgetown Fire Department asks that residents follow these tips from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency:

Minimize outdoor activities for the whole family, including pets.
If outside, dress in several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing instead of a single heavy layer. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent. Wear a hat, mittens (not gloves) and sturdy waterproof boots to protect your extremities. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.
Be a good neighbor. Check with elderly or disabled relatives and neighbors to ensure their safety.

Additionally, because of the extreme cold, other areas of your home and vehicles may be affected:

Increased fire risk due to unsafe/improper use of alternative heating sources or people trying to thaw frozen pipes with blowtorches or similar devices.

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Locate the area of the water pipe that might be frozen. Likely places include pipes running against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, or wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame devices. A blowtorch can make water in a frozen pipe boil and cause the pipe to explode. All open flames in homes present a serious fire danger, as well as a severe risk of exposure to lethal carbon monoxide.

Possible increase in incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning from unsafe/improper use of alternative heating sources.

Ensure you have sufficient heating fuel, as well as alternate emergency heating equipment in case you lose electricity.
When utilizing alternate heating sources, such as an emergency generator, your fireplace, wood stove or space heater, make sure they are properly ventilated and always operate a generator outdoors and away from your home. Improper use of heating devices can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup in the home.

Possible vehicle failure.

Make sure your car is properly winterized. Keep the gas tank at least half-full. Carry a winter emergency car kit including blankets, extra clothing, a flashlight with spare batteries, non-perishable foods, windshield scraper, shovel, sand, tow rope and jumper cables in the trunk.

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Georgetown Fire Department Extinguishes Fire Outside Johnnie’s Place

August 9, 2017 by Jessica Sacco

Georgetown Fire Department
Fred A. Mitchell Jr., Fire Chief
47 Central Street
Georgetown, MA 01833

For Immediate Release

Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2017

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Georgetown Fire Department Extinguishes Fire Outside Johnnie’s Place

The Georgetown Fire Department responded to Johnnie’s Place after a fire was reported outside the building. (Courtesy Photo Georgetown Fire Department)

GEORGETOWN — Chief Fred Mitchell reports that the Georgetown Fire Department extinguished a fire outside a building in town earlier this week.

On Monday, Aug. 7, at 12:32 p.m., Georgetown firefighters were dispatched to Johnnie’s Place, 69 East Main St., after fire and smoke were reported outside the building.

Upon arrival, firefighters found a working fire on the perimeter of the building and smoke in the building’s basement. The fire did not extend into the building and was quickly extinguished.

There were no injuries or damage to the interior of the building. The facade of the building sustained minor damage.

Crews from the Newbury, Groveland, and Rowley Fire Departments arrived on scene for mutual aid, while the Boxford and West Newbury Fire Department provided station coverage.

The cause is under investigation, however, a preliminary investigation indicates that the fire could have started from an improperly discarded cigarette.

Johnnie’s Place reopened after the Georgetown Building Inspector and the Georgetown Board of Health inspected the interior and exterior and deemed it safe.

The Georgetown Fire Department has responded to multiple fires believed to have been caused by the improper disposal of cigarettes, including at the Black Swan Country Club last year. To prevent fires caused by cigarettes, the Georgetown Fire Department reminds residents of several important safety tips:

Never toss hot cigarettes butts or ashes into bushes, mulch, or grassy areas that can easily catch fire.
Throwing cigarettes on the ground is considered littering.

Fully extinguish cigarettes in an ash tray or a non-combustible container.
Soak cigarette butts in water before throwing them away.
If smoking inside, don’t place ash trays on combustible surfaces.

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Georgetown Fire Department Provides Halloween Safety Tips

October 25, 2016 by Chief Fred Mitchell

Georgetown Fire Department
Fred A. Mitchell Jr., Fire Chief
47 Central Street
Georgetown, MA 01833

For Immediate Release

Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Georgetown Fire Department Provides Halloween Safety Tips

GEORGETOWN — Chief Fred Mitchell and the Georgetown Fire Department are reminding residents of the following safety tips as Halloween approaches.

Halloween, which is celebrated on Oct. 31, falls on a Monday this year. Trick-or-treat hours in Georgetown are from 5 to 7 p.m.

The Georgetown community should also use caution as they celebrate the weekend prior to Halloween, Oct. 28-30.

“Georgetown is a wonderful residential community for trick-or-treating, and the department is committed to insuring everyone’s safety as they walk around town,” Chief Mitchell said. “Drivers, please be extra aware of those out and about on Halloween night. Drive slow, keep your lights on, and yield to all pedestrians.”

The Georgetown Fire Department recommends that residents follow safety tips outlined by the Centers for Disease Control, which ask that people follow the “Safe Halloween” motto.

• Swords and other costume accessories should be short, soft and flexible.

• Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.

• Fasten reflective tape on costumes and bags to help drivers see you.

• Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before you eat them.

• Hold a flashlight while walking to ensure that you are visible. Walk and don’t run from house to house.

• Always test makeup in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.

• Lower your risk of serious eye injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.

• Look both ways before crossing the street. Use established crosswalks wherever possible.

• Only walk on sidewalks wherever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe and to prevent accidents or injury.

• Wear well-fitting masks, costumes and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips and falls.

• Eat only factory-wrapped candy. Avoid eating homemade treats offered by strangers.

• Enter homes only if you’re with a trusted adult. Only visit well-lit houses. Never accept rides from strangers.

• Never walk near lit candles or devices with open flames. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.

Any parents or residents with questions on Halloween safety should contact the Georgetown Fire Department at (978) 352-5757.

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Georgetown Fire Department Reminds Residents of Smoke Detector Safety

September 9, 2016 by Chelsea Belliveau

Georgetown Fire Department
Fred A. Mitchell Jr., Fire Chief
47 Central Street
Georgetown, MA 01833

For Immediate Release

Friday, Sept. 9, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Georgetown Fire Department Reminds Residents of Smoke Detector Safety

GEORGETOWN — Chief Fred A. Mitchell, Jr. and the Georgetown Fire Department are reminding residents about smoke alarm safety, especially the importance of having up-to-date and properly functioning detectors in your home or business.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire death and injuries. Three out of every five home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

Over the past six weeks, the Georgetown Fire Department has responded to at least six homes where smoke alarms were sounding for no apparent reason, which is usually a sign of a faulty detector. In each instance, firefighters discovered that the detectors were well past their expiration date according to manufacturer recommendations.

Chief Mitchell recommends that residents follow these tips outlined by the NFPA to keep homes safe and prevent fires:

Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Replace the smoke alarm immediately if it doesn’t respond properly when tested.
Smoke alarms should be interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound. Interconnection can be done using hard-wiring or wireless technology.
When interconnected smoke alarms are installed, it is important that all of the alarms are from the same manufacturer.
Replace all smoke alarms in your home every 10 years.
Smoke alarms with non-replaceable (life-long) batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, a warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.

Installing smoke alarms

Install smoke alarms inside each bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement. On levels without bedrooms, install alarms in the living room, den or family room, or near the stairway to the upper level.
Smoke alarms installed in the basement should be installed on the ceiling at the bottom of the stairs leading to the next level.
Smoke alarms should be installed at least 10 feet (3 meters) from a cooking appliance to minimize false alarms when cooking.
Mount smoke alarms high on walls or ceilings (remember, smoke rises). Wall-mounted alarms should be installed not more than 12 inches away from the ceiling (to the top of the alarm). If you have ceilings that are pitched, install the alarm within 3 feet of the peak but not within the apex of the peak (four inches down from the peak).
Don’t install smoke alarms near windows, doors, or ducts where drafts might interfere with their operation.
Never paint smoke alarms. Paint, stickers, or other decorations could keep the alarms from working.

If you are unsure about the safety of smoke alarms in your home, Georgetown firefighters will provide a free inspection. To make an appointment or for more information about properly installing or testing smoke detectors, contact the Georgetown Fire Department at 978-352-5757.

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Joint Press Release Georgetown Fire and Police Departments Provide Hot Weather Safety Tips

July 15, 2016 by Jessica Sacco

For Immediate Release

Friday, July 15, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Joint Press Release Georgetown Fire and Police Departments Provide Hot Weather Safety Tips

GEORGETOWN — With temperatures predicted to hover at 90 degrees for the next several days, Fire Chief Fred Mitchell and Police Chief Donald Cudmore recommend that residents use caution when outside.

“This type of weather can take a serious toll on the body if exposure is not managed properly,” Chief Mitchell said. “If you’re spending time outdoors, whether swimming at Pentucket Pond or hanging out by the pool, remember to take shade throughout the day and keep yourself hydrated.”

The American Red Cross reports that excessive heat has caused more deaths than all other weather events and that residents should be aware of three conditions that could occur during this stretch of hot weather:

Heat cramps: muscular pains and spasms that usually occur in the legs or abdomen caused by exposure to high heat and humidity and loss of fluids and electrolytes. Heat cramps are often an early sign that the body is having trouble with the heat.
— If someone you know is suffering from heat cramps, move the person indoors or to a cooler place and hydrate.

Heat exhaustion: typically involves the loss of body fluids through heavy sweating during strenuous exercise or physical labor in high heat and humidity. Signs include cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness and exhaustion.
— If you see someone suffering from heat exhaustion, move the person to a cooler place. Remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If the person is conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in condition.

Heat stroke: (also known as sunstroke) is a life-threatening condition in which a person’s temperature control system stops working and the body is unable to cool itself. Signs include hot, red skin that may be dry or moist, changes in consciousness, vomiting and a high body temperature.
— If you see someone suffering from heat stroke, move the person to a cool area. Quickly cool the person’s body by giving care as you would for heat exhaustion. If needed, continue rapid cooling by applying ice or cold packs wrapped in a cloth to the wrists, ankles, groin, neck and armpits.

“During this extended period of hot weather, we ask that residents put their safety first and delay all outdoor activities or work that may be strenuous to the body,” Chief Cudmore said. “Additionally, if you are able, check in on older neighbors who are more at risk of falling ill due to the heat.”

The Georgetown Fire and Police Departments suggest that the community follow safety precautions outlined by the American Red Cross:

Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
Eat small meals and eat more often.
Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
Postpone outdoor games and activities and take frequent breaks if you must work outdoors.
Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat. Don’t forget to monitor your pets to ensure they are not suffering from the heat.

If you see someone who is suffering from a heat-related issue, please call 911.

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Georgetown Fire Department Offers Cooking Safety Tips to Resident

June 10, 2016 by Chelsea Belliveau

Georgetown Fire Department
Fred A. Mitchell Jr., Fire Chief
47 Central Street
Georgetown, MA 01833

For Immediate Release

Friday, June 10, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Georgetown Fire Department Offers Cooking Safety Tips to Resident

GEORGETOWN – Chief Fred Mitchell and the Georgetown Fire Department are encouraging residents to follow cooking safety tips in order to prevent kitchen fires.

From January to May 2016, the Georgetown Fire Department responded to 20 incidents involving cooking fires.

“Unfortunately, cooking fires are extremely common and pose a serious danger to residents,” Chief Mitchell said. “With caution and regard for personal safety, though, many of these fires can be prevented.”

There were 10,630 home fires involving cooking in Massachusetts in 2014. According to the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services, cooking fires account for 47 percent of all reported fires in homes and unattended cooking is the most frequent cause of these kitchen fires.

The Georgetown Fire Department offers residents cooking safety tips outlined by the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services:

Stand by your pan when cooking. Do not leave food, grease, or oils cooking on the stove unattended.
Keep pot handles turned inward to prevent accidental spills of hot contents.
Keep combustible objects such as pot holders, towels, paper, or plastic bags away from heating elements.
Create a three-foot “child-free zone” around the stove. Keep children and pets away from the stove while cooking to prevent burns and scalds.
If your clothing catches fire, stop, drop, and roll to put out flames. Put burns in cool running water. Call 911 for help.
Put a lid on a grease fire to smother it, then turn off the heat. Baking soda will also work.
Never move a burning pan. You could be badly burned or spread the fire.
For fires inside an oven or microwave, keep the door closed, turn off the appliance, and call the fire department.
In the event of a fire, leave the building immediately and call 911. All fires and burns, regardless of size, should be reported to the fire department.

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Joint Press Release Georgetown Fire and Police Departments Remind Residents to Share the Road with Motorcycles

May 27, 2016 by Chelsea Belliveau

Georgetown Fire Department
Fred A. Mitchell, Fire Chief
47 Central Street
Georgetown, MA 01833
Georgetown Police Department
Donald C. Cudmore, Chief of Police
47 Central Street
Georgetown, MA 01833

For Immediate Release

Friday, May 27, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Joint Press Release Georgetown Fire and Police Departments Remind Residents to Share the Road with Motorcycles

GEORGETOWN — With the summer months fast approaching, Fire Chief Fred A. Mitchell and Police Chief Donald C. Cudmore remind residents to share the road with motorcyclists.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that in 2013, there were 4,668 motorcyclists killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes, and an estimated 88,000 who were injured.

“It is vital that residents remain alert on the road, whether they are in a car or on a motorcycle,” Chief Mitchell said. “Drivers should make sure they are taking extra time to look out for motorcycles, and motorcyclists should be making every effort to remain visible to drivers.”

“Motorcyclists should be given the same courtesy as any other driver, so please be aware of your surroundings and always look twice before turning or changing lanes,” Chief Cudmore said. “Additionally, motorcyclists should remain cautious of other vehicles and avoid traveling in a driver’s blind spot.”

To prevent accidents and fatalities, Chief Mitchell and Chief Cudmore recommend that drivers and motorcyclists follow several safety tips outlined by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles.

Advice to Drivers

Motorcycles are more difficult to spot than cars because of their smaller profiles and drivers are conditioned to look for other cars, not motorcyclists.
Traffic, weather, and road conditions require motorcyclists to react differently than drivers, so it is often difficult to judge and predict when riders may take evasive action.
Drivers must always be aware of their surroundings. Remember: Check twice, save a life.
Remember that motorcyclists have the same privileges as other drivers. Be sure to give riders a full lane of travel, and always keep a close watch for motorcyclists — especially at intersections and on highways.
Anticipate a motorcyclist’s maneuvers. A piece of road debris that poses no threat to a car may be deadly for a motorcyclist. Predict evasive moves a motorcyclist might take by always being aware of your surroundings. Also, don’t follow motorcycles too closely. Allow enough room for the motorcyclist to take evasive actions.

You are more likely to be involved in an accident with a motorcycle when:

You are making a left turn in front of a rider.
A motorcyclist is riding in your blind spot.
There are hazardous road conditions. Potholes, wet leaves, railroad tracks, and other obstructions may force a motorcyclist to take an action you don’t expect.
You have an obstructed line of sight. Sport utility vehicles, delivery vans, and large trucks may block motorcyclists from your view.

Advice to Riders

Don’t assume you are visible to a driver. As a motorcyclist, it is your responsibility to make your presence known to drivers. Select and wear an appropriate helmet with retroreflective materials. A motorcycle helmet is your most valuable piece of protective gear and should be visible to drivers. Wear bright, contrasting protective clothing. If you wear dark clothing, wear a fluorescent vest.
Use headlights while riding on the highway, and use high beams rather than low beams. Also consider a modulating headlight.
Proper lane position is important. It helps drivers see you and protects your riding space. Remember, if you can see a driver in the side-view mirror, the driver can see you. Avoid riding in a driver’s blind spot, and always signal before making a move. Never weave between lanes.
Remember, there is no one safe place to ride. Use lane positioning to be seen and to provide extra space for emergency braking situations or avoidance maneuvers. Never share a lane with a car. Drivers may not expect you alongside their cars and may not be aware of your presence.

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Georgetown Fire Department Offers Grilling Safety Tips to Residents

May 10, 2016 by Chelsea Belliveau

Georgetown Fire Department
Fred A. Mitchell Jr., Fire Chief
47 Central Street
Georgetown, MA 01833

For Immediate Release

Tuesday, May 10, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Georgetown Fire Department Offers Grilling Safety Tips to Residents

GEORGETOWN – As the warm weather approaches and residents get ready to barbecue, Chief Fred A. Mitchell Jr. and the Georgetown Fire Department are reminding the community to follow grilling safety tips to ensure a fire-free season.

According to the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services (DFS), Massachusetts fire departments responded to 431 fires involving grills, hibachis and barbecues between 2011 and 2015. These fires caused 20 civilian injuries, three firefighter injuries and $3.5 million in property damage.

“We want everyone to be able to enjoy the warm weather and outdoor cooking this summer, but we also want to ensure that they remain safe while doing so,” Chief Mitchell said. “It is vital that residents follow the safety tips we have provided in order to prevent fires and injuries that can result from grilling.”

In order to prevent grilling fires and keep residents safe while cooking outdoors, Chief Mitchell recommends the following tips provided by DFS:

Safety First

Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors.
Place grills away from the house, deck railings and out from under eaves of overhanging branches.
Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area. Children should never play near grills or propane cylinders.
Never leave a burning grill unattended.

Gas Grill Safety

Make sure the lid of a gas grill is open when you light it. Propane can build up inside and when ignited, the lid may blow off.
Check that all connections are tight before turning on the gas.
Clean the grease trap every time you grill.
If you smell gas while cooking, turn the grill off and move away from it. Call 911 from a safe location. Do not move the grill.
Store propane cylinders upright in an outdoor, shaded area. Cylinders should not be used, stored or transported where they can be exposed to high temperatures.

Charcoal Grill Safety

Use only charcoal starter fluid. Never used gasoline or kerosene to start a fire in a grill and never add lighter fluid to burning briquettes or hot coals.
Always use charcoal grills in a well-ventilated area. Charcoal briquettes give off carbon monoxide, which can be deadly.
Properly dispose of grill ashes. Allow the coals to burn out completely and then cool for 48 hours before disposal. If you must dispose of ashes before they are completely cooled, thoroughly soak them in water before putting them in a metal container.

Anyone who has questions about grilling safely should contact the Georgetown Fire Department at 978-352-5757.

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