Winston County Self-Help Cooperative (WCSHC) hosted a Firewise Workshop on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at Little Hill Community Center in Kosciusko, Mississippi. The presenters were Mr. Danny Townsend – Emergency Management Director, Attala County; Mr. Chris Burham – Outreach Officer, MS Forestry Commission; Mr. Orlando Ellerby – Firewise Coordinator, MS Forestry; and Tim Cox, Attala County Fire Chief.
Each presenter discussed ways to keep our home and family safe from fires. Each presenter also gave examples of how to prevent fires and what not to do in case of a fire in our home or property.
Ways to prevent house fires:
· Do not plug electric heaters into any extension cord or surge protector.
· Plug the electric heater directly into a wall outlet.
· Purchase a fire extinguisher (make sure it’s “ABC” or “BC”). Make sure charcoal is completely removed.
· Do not sleep on your cell phone or anything with lithium batteries.
· Remove all dry debris from around your home.
· Burn in a barrel.
· Remove debris from the roof and gutters.
· Remove tree branches that hang over the roof.
· Never store flammable materials underneath the deck or porch.
· Have a fire escape plan and meeting place for family members.
. Check smoke alarms and batteries every 2 to 4 months.
Actions to take in case of a house or property fire:
· Call 911, especially for wildfires.
. Throw flour on kitchen fires
· Provide the dispatcher with good directions (address and nearest crossroads).
· Evacuate the home.
· Do not re-enter the home for any reason.
· Stay a safe distance from the burning structure.
· Take pictures for fire investigator and insurance company if possible.
The workshop was very informative and interactive. WCSHC provided materials with additional information about fire prevention and a delicious meal.
View photos of this event.
