Part of the purpose of a Neighborhood Advisory Committee is service area briefings, to bring important issues to the forefront of the community.

This winter has seen the deaths of 22 people in Philadelphia due to accidental fires. Fires are clearly a pressing issue to our communities. When Ben Franklin helped found the Philadelphia Fire Department he insisted on a seperate Fire Prevention Department geared to educate the public. It is from this background that Lt. Gilliam recently spoke on fire prevention at White Rock Baptist Church.

Smoke is deadly, many people never see flames or feel the heat, but become incapacitated by the toxic gases from the smoke.

Smoke Detectors are the Key

• 19 of the 22 accidental fire deaths occurred in homes without working smoke detectors.
• Smoke alarms should be placed on the ceiling, one on every floor
• They should be tested regularly and replaced every ten years.
• Smoke Detectors are available to home owners through the Fire Department.
  Call the Smoke Alarm Hotline: (215) 686-1176 or stop by our office @ 35 N. 60th St. to fill out the form

Plastic burns faster, hotter and with more toxic gases. Most fires occur between the hours of 11 PM and 7 AM.

Fire Prevention Tips

• Don't Overload sockets.
• Extension chords aren't meant to be permanent solutions, they shouldn't be left plugged in overnight.
• Only buy extension chords that carry the Underwriters UL label.
• Turn pot handles in
• Replace Frayed and damaged wires
• Keep portable heaters a safe distance away from curtains, beds, sofas, and other combustible surfaces
• NEVER SMOKE IN BED!