Fire Safety Tips for Your Park
October is observed as national fire prevention month to educate the public and raise awareness of the importance of fire safety.
For parks and recreation centers, this means paying just as much attention to fire prevention in your office or meeting room as you do outdoors. For indoor facilities, regular maintenance and inspections of machinery, electrical panels, smoke detectors, and alarms can help prevent fires from starting and properly alert employees and visitors of the need to evacuate if smoke or a fire is detected.
Create an emergency plan and exit strategy detailing what to do in the event of a fire. Train the staff on exit routes, how to help anyone nearby who needs assistance and where to meet once everyone has evacuated. Perform regular fire drills and create a procedure to secure the building during a fire so that no one is allowed entry.
Do’s and Don’ts
- Employees who smoke should only do so in designated smoking areas and properly dispose of cigarettes using a cigarette receptacle.
- Report electrical outages and ensure all repair and service is performed by professionals.
- Do not use mechanical/electrical closets for storage.
- Do not block the pathway to exits, electrical breakers or fire extinguishers.
- Hallways and walkways should always remain clear of obstruction.
Fire Safety for Park Visitors
First and foremost, instruct visitors to comply with local fire ordinances, and take special precaution when starting fires whether it’s a campfire or using a barbecue grill or pit. Visitors should remove all brush from the area before starting a fire and keep water and a shovel nearby to safely extinguish the fire.
Do’s and Don’ts
- Active fires should always be attended by an adult.
- Be aware of high winds or drought that can cause small fires to grow out of control.
- Properly dispose of cigarettes using a cigarette receptacle.
- Do not light fireworks in the park as they can create a public safety hazard.
- Do not drive cars or recreational vehicles in areas of dry vegetation, the heat from under the vehicle can spark a fire.
