Fire Prevention

Mission

The mission of the Office of the Fire Marshal is to reduce fire occurrence and the loss of life and property throughout the Borough of Runnemede, through a regular inspection program, public education, awareness, and training programs.

Prevent Cooking Fires

www.nfpa.org/assets/files/quiz/fire_prevention_week_quiz_06.html

Click on the link above for the NFPA Watch What You Heat fire prevention quiz

Smoke Detectors and Home Fire Drills

Most fatal home fire occur at night while the victims are sleeping. They usually succumb to invisible gases and smoke, which can actually drug them into sleeping more soundly.

Inexpensive home smoke detectors will sense this danger and sound a life saving alarm. All homes should have at least a detector outside the bedroom on each level and one in the basement and utility areas.

Smoke detectors in good working condition increase your chances of survival in a fire by 50%. Most people die in the first few minutes of a home fire. The key to survival is to have adequate warning and get out fast. An average home fire can triple in size in about one minute.

Testing of your smoke detectors on a regular basis to make sure they will sound the proper alarm is essential. Change your batteries when necessary and it is recommended to change your batteries when you change your clock. Never borrow batteries from a detector for another purpose.

Remember to practice home fire escape drill (E.D.I.T.H) Exit Drills in the Home with your family. This practice along with working smoke detectors will increase you're your chances of surviving a home fire.

Our office has booklets, brochures, and programs to assist you in your efforts of fire prevention. Contact the Runnemede Fire Marshal's Office at 856-939-2817 or contact us online at firemarshal@runnemedefire.org if you have any questions.

Fire Safety Programs

Fire Extinguisher Training
This program consists of both video and lecture. All businesses have fire extinguishers. This program was developed to train employees on the types and use of fire extinguishers, and how to use them safely and properly. Hands on training can be set up by this office through the Camden County Fire Academy.

Workplace Safety Program
This program was developed to train management and employees on the basics of workplace safety. The program is customized for each place of business. It covers safety components of the premises and emergency procedures.

Smoke Detector Program
No Child Without a Smoke Detector!
When available residents can receive smoke detectors or batteries free of charge.
We also conduct residential function testing of smoke detectors.

Group Fire Safety Education
The office will conduct a group program for community groups within the Borough of Runnemede. The training will be customized to fit the group's specific needs.

Fire Prevention

10 Tips for Fire Safety

1. Smoke Detectors Save Lives!
   Smoke detectors should be placed at every floor of your home, including the basement. Since bedroom doors should be closed to slow the spread of smoke and fire, alarms should be installed in bedrooms as well. For additional safety the batteries should be tested every six months.
2. Be Careful in the Kitchen.
   Never leave cooking food unattended. If you must leave the kitchen, turn off the burners. Never cook with loose dangling clothing. Turn pot handles away from the front of the stove. Keep the stove and area surrounding the stove clean and free of grease.
3. Smoking!
   Never leave cigarettes, pipes or cigars unattended. Don't place ashtrays on the arms of furniture where they can be tipped over! Use large ashtrays with wide lips. Close matchbooks before striking. If you are feeling drowsy, stop smoking, and never smoke in bed!
4. E.D.I.T.H. Exit Drills in the Home.
   Plan your escape route. You should have a primary and back up route for each room. Conduct home fire drills to practice getting out. Remember when there is a fire, reasoning and thought patterns may be affected. If you practice, your memory and instincts may help you survive!
5. Watch Those Wires.
   If you are using extension cords inspect them prior to use. Check to ensure that the cord is approved for the use and is in good condition. UL approved cords with built in circuit protection are the safest.
6. Put Lighters and Matches Safely Away.
   Kids are naturally curious. The mystery of fire is especially attractive to them. Be certain that matches and lighters are not within easy reach.
7. Place Space Heaters Safely.
   Make sure when using a space heater there is enough clearance from available combustibles. Usually a minimum of three feet in all directions of space is recommended but check the manufactures instructions before using prior to use. Never use fuel-burning appliances without the proper ventilation.
8. Crawl Low in Smoke.
   Fire is fast, hot, dark, and deadly! How hot can a fire get? So hot the air scorches your lungs! Remember; in fire, crawl low on the floor where the air is not as hot. Heat from fire and the smoke creates a poisonous gas that kills.
9. Stop! Drop! And Roll!
   If your clothes catch fire, do not run! The movement will only fan the flames. Don't panic. Just drop to the ground. Cover your face with your hands to keep your face and lungs protected and just roll over and over until the flames are out. Remember; if your clothes catch on fire, "Stop, Drop, and Roll!"
10. Teach Children How to Call for Emergency Assistance.
    Post emergency phone numbers near the telephone. Fire, Police, EMS, Poison Control, Doctors, Parent's Work Numbers. Teach them and make sure the children know what they are for and how to use them.

Contact Us

Call: 856-939-2817
Fax: 856-939-2821
Email: FireMarshal@runnemedefire.org
Fire & Safety Web Site Links

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Adults

Children