Fire Prevention
Deputy Fire Marshal Sichel Young syoung@monterey.org
Administrative Office Monterey Fire Department 610 Pacific Street Monterey, CA 93940
Phone: (831) 646-3900 Fax: (831) 646-3723 Non-Emergency: (831) 646-3914
Fire Prevention Bureau Phone: (831) 646-3908 Email: Fireprevention@monterey.org
Infectious Control Officers Primary: Jim Courtney (831) 646-6965 Secondary: Gaudenz Panholzer (831) 646-6957 Alternate: On-Duty Division Chief (831) 901-5002
It's wildfire season. Are you ready?
Alternative Heaters Use heaters only in well-ventilated rooms. Place heaters where they will not be knocked over easily. Do not use heaters to dry clothing or other items. Keep heaters at a safe distance from curtains, furniture, and all combustibles.
Kerosene Heaters Kerosene Heaters are illegal to use in a residence. Fill only with K-1 Kerosene, and never use gasoline or camp stove fuel. Refuel kerosene heaters outdoors and when they're cool.
Wood Stoves and Fireplaces Only use seasoned wood, and never use green wood, artificial logs or trash. Always use a protective screen. Clean interiors, hearths and chimneys yearly.
Safe Cooking Practices Don't leave food unattended on the stove. Keep dangling clothing away from burners. Keep appliances clean and free of grease and crumbs. Keep curtains and other combustibles away from the stove. Make sure the stove is off and small appliances are unplugged before going to bed.
Smoke Detectors Place smoke detectors in every bedroom and hallways outside bedrooms. Test the batteries monthly. Change Batteries when you change your clocks at Daylight Savings Time. Place smoke detectors at least 4 to 6 inches away from walls and corners. Keep away from Bathrooms and Kitchens to prevent False Alarms
Electrical Wiring Replace wiring if it's frayed or cracked. Do not place wiring under rugs, over nails or in high traffic areas. Avoid overloading outlets and make sure they stay cool to the touch. Keep covers over electric plates and avoid exposed wiring.
Electric Space Heaters Plug heaters directly into the wall socket, and not into extension cords. Unplug heaters when they're not being used.
Smoking Habits Never smoke in bed. Keep ashtrays away from upholstered furniture and curtains. Always attend burning cigarettes.
Children and Fire Safety Keep lighters and matches away from children. Teach children how to call for emergency assistance (911). Use safety plugs in electrical outlets.
Home Fire Escape Plan Have an escape plan and make sure all family members know it. Practice the plan every six months. Keep emergency numbers, a whistle and a flashlight near the telephone. Identify an outside meeting place and never return into a burning building. Know how to call for emergency assistance (911).
Fire Safety Technology Keep a fire extinguisher handy, especially in the kitchen. Consider installing residential fire sprinklers.