Crime & Safety

Fire Safety in Ballston

Remembering to check the oven before preheating it can save lives.

Many people mark Labor Day or back-to-school as a time to reorganize their lives after the summer and do some fall cleaning—change the batteries in the smoke detectors, throw out expired condiments or clean out that coat closet. Whatever end-of-summer rituals you have, one ritual to add to your list is fire safety.

The issue of fire safety is especially important in Ballston-Virginia Square because of all of the multi-use buildings.

"The fact that so many people live in the same structure, it's more than just you and your family. It jeopardizes multiple families," said Capt. Dan Fitch of the Arlington County Fire Department.

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In addition to changing the batteries in all smoke detectors, people should be sure they know where their fire extinguisher is and how to use it.  Furthermore, Fitch said the most important thing to do to avoid fires is to keep things clean.

According to Fitch, good housekeeping and simply keeping things away from appliances that get extra hot goes a long way. Two common issues Fitch said the ACFD encounters are gas stoves and people storing items in ovens.

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"It's cool to store metal stuff in the oven, but when you start storing your Tupperware in the oven and turn it on to preheat it starts a fire," Fitch said. "With a gas stovetop, if something flammable goes across the gas range it will catch fire quickly."

When it comes to grease fires, even in a panic, never try to put a grease fire out with water. Fitch said to use a chemical extinguisher or baking soda. If a fire of any sort gets out of control in your house, act quickly, Fitch said.

"Just get out first, get yourself and anyone else out of the house and then call 911," he said. "Don't worry about getting pictures or memorabilia out of the house, get people out of the house."

Tips: Change smoke detector batteries often; before leaving the room, check to make sure all appliances are off; never leave a candle burning unattended; keep a chemical fire extinguisher on every level of the house—and know how to use it; clean your stove and oven often; and finally respond quickly to any fire.


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