Last Friday, we had an exciting and educational fire prevention event at Dr. Rose H. Wilder Elementary School – CCSD. The students learned about fire safety in a fun and engaging way.
Building relationships between our firefighters and the community is very important, as it helps create trust and understanding about fire safety. We’re proud to have had the opportunity to educate our children while making lasting memories.
Let’s continue working together to keep our community safe!
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
UPDATED 1:48pm All units are clear from Sumter Hwy.
🚒⚠️ TRAFFIC ADVISORY ⚠️🚒
Clarendon County Fire Rescue units are on scene of a vehicle fire near the intersection of Sumter Hwy and Hwy 301. Please use caution if in the area. The roadway is shut down at this time.
5 CommentsComment on Facebook
We are excited to announce the recent promotions of several outstanding members of our team! Your hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed, and these advancements are a testament to your contributions.
Courtney Dukes-Atkinson promoted to Captain.
Shawn Norman Sr promoted to Lieutenant.
Casey Melone promoted to Lieutenant.
Thank you for your leadership. We look forward to seeing the great things you will accomplish in your new roles. Keep shining!
87 CommentsComment on Facebook
Batteries are a part of our modern lives, powering everything from our smartphones to electric vehicles. However, improper disposal of batteries poses significant environmental and safety risks. Understanding the importance of responsible battery disposal is important for protecting our health and property.
Batteries contain toxic chemicals and heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and lithium. When disposed of in landfills, these substances can leach into the soil and waterways, posing hazards to wildlife and contaminating our drinking water. Proper disposal and recycling help minimize these risks, ensuring hazardous materials are treated safely and responsibly.
Improperly discarded batteries can also pose health risks. If batteries are crushed or punctured, they may leak harmful substances that can harm both human health and the environment. Additionally, battery fires can occur from damaged or improperly disposed batteries, creating further dangers to communities and firefighters.
Recycling batteries allows for the recovery of valuable materials used in their production. For example, lithium, cobalt, and nickel can be extracted from used batteries and repurposed for new products, reducing the need for mining and making manufacturing more sustainable. This not only conserves resources but also helps to decrease greenhouse gas emissions associated with mining operations.
Properly disposing of batteries is an important step toward protecting our environment, health, and future generations. By taking action to recycle and dispose of batteries responsibly, we can contribute to a cleaner, safer planet. Let’s work together to ensure that our daily habits reflect our commitment to sustainability and safety.
Visit call2recycle.org to find your nearest drop off location.
The closest drop off location for Clarendon County residents will be Lowes of Sumter.
1 CommentsComment on Facebook
Safety Tips for Lithium Batteries and Outdoor Power Equipment
It’s important to raise awareness about the safe use and maintenance of lithium batteries, especially in outdoor power equipment. With their increasing popularity in tools such as leaf blowers, lawn mowers, and chainsaws, understanding how to handle and store these batteries safely can significantly reduce the risk of fire hazards.
Lithium-ion batteries are widely used due to their lightweight nature and high energy density. However, they require proper handling and care to avoid accidents, including overheating, swelling, or worse, fire.
Safety Tips for Lithium Batteries in Outdoor Power Equipment:
1. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions for charging, storing, and maintaining your lithium batteries. This guidance includes recommended charging times and temperatures.
2. Charge Safely: Avoid charging batteries unattended or overnight. Use the charger provided by the manufacturer to prevent compatibility issues, which can lead to overheating.
3. Inspect Regularly: Before using outdoor power equipment, check the battery for signs of damage. Swollen batteries or those with cracks should be disposed of properly and replaced immediately.
4. Storage Practices: Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. If storing for long periods, consider following the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding partial charge levels.
5. Use Proper Extension Cords: If your equipment requires plugging in, use heavy-duty extension cords rated for outdoor use. Damaged or improperly rated cords can increase the risk of electrical fires.
6. Avoid Exceeding Limits: Adhere to the power ratings of your tools. Overloading your equipment can stress lithium batteries and lead to overheating.
7. Dispose of Batteries Responsibly: Do not throw batteries in the regular trash. Instead, take them to designated recycling or disposal sites that handle lithium batteries.
In the unfortunate event of a lithium battery fire, it’s important to act quickly!
– Evacuate the Area: Ensure everyone is safe and at a safe distance from the fire.
– Call 911: Report the fire to professionals who can handle it appropriately.
– Use Caution: Do not try to extinguish a lithium battery fire with water, as it can make the situation worse. Instead, use a Class D fire extinguisher designed for metal fires if available.
Remember to be proactive in ensuring the safe use of lithium batteries in outdoor power equipment. By following these guidelines, you can help mitigate fire risks and keep your home and community safe. Always prioritize safety and stay informed about best practices for battery maintenance and usage.
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
The Importance of Choosing Listed Products
As we observe this year’s fire prevention theme—“Lithium Batteries in Your Home”—it’s important to emphasize the importance of purchasing only listed products. These are items that have been tested for safety and performance by independent laboratories, ensuring they meet specific standards.
Why Should You Buy Listed Products?
1. Safety Assurance: Listed products undergo stringent testing to minimize the risk of malfunctions or failures, which can lead to fires. Lithium batteries, in particular, require careful handling and specific safety measures due to their chemical composition.
2. Reduced Risk of Fire Hazards: Using unlisted or counterfeit products can result in overheating, short-circuiting, or chemical leaks. This is particularly important for lithium batteries, which can pose serious fire risks if they aren’t manufactured to regulatory standards.
3. Peace of Mind: When you choose listed products, you’re not just investing in quality; you’re also ensuring the safety of your loved ones. Knowing that a product has been tested and verified can alleviate concerns about potential hazards in your home.
4. Protecting Your Investment: Quality products tend to last longer and perform better. While they may have a higher initial cost, the long-term savings in replacement costs and potential fire damage cannot be overlooked.
What to Look For:
– Certification Marks: Always check for certification marks from recognized testing laboratories, such as UL. These indicate that the product has met rigorous safety standards.
– Packaging Information: Be wary of products with vague descriptions or no clear safety certifications on the packaging. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
– Product Reviews: Research and read reviews from other consumers. This insight can often highlight issues that may not be evident at first glance.
As we embrace the convenience and power of lithium batteries in our homes, let’s commit to safety by choosing only listed products. Together, we can minimize fire risks and create a safer living environment for everyone.
0 CommentsComment on Facebook