Fire Safety

The United States has one of the highest fire death and injury rates in the world. Fire-- in the form of flames and smoke -- is the second leading cause of accidental death in the home. More than 4,000 people die each year in home fires. Every year, there are more than 500,000 residential fires serious enough to be reported to fire departments. Property losses exceed 4 billion dollars annually, and the long term emotional damage to victims and their loved ones is incalculable. We recognize that much can be done to cut down on the needlessly high and tragic fire toll by alerting and informing citizens of overlooked hazards and simple preventative measures. Use the following guide to spot possible fire safety problems which may be present in your home. It is a first step in reducing the risk of fire!

Burning Trash or Yard Waste is Against the Law!
In the past, open burning was considered a quick and cheap means of disposal. You might have enjoyed autumn's leaf burning tradition. In most cases burning can no longer be justified given the environmental and health costs when safe alternatives now exist state-wide. That's why Indiana law restricts open burning. A law was passed in 1995 that makes it illegal for residents in Lake, Porter, Clark, and Floyd counties to burn any household or yard waste. This law and others were created to reduce ozone in those regions. Moreover, it is illegal and dangerous to burn trash such as plastic containers, batteries, rubber, disposable diapers, and painted or otherwise treated items anywhere in Indiana.

Fire Safety Links

Survive alive A Program for kids and their families.

A good page about Fire Prevention.

A good fire safety page.