Safety First

Accidents can happen to anyone. Yet when presented with personal accounts that have occurred in a home, the common response is: "That could never be me."

With summertime rolling in, residents should slap safety caps over outlets, monitor children and have an evacuation plan in order. Taking a closer look at home safety measures could save your life and the lives of loved ones.

    From fire risk reduction to heat and water hazards to carbon monoxide poisoning -- the silent killer -- there are always steps that can minimize or even eliminate harm, said Miranda Iglesias, the public information officer at Marion County Fire Rescue.
    Living in Florida provides sunshine and relaxation, but for those who spend a significant amount of time outside, it can also lead to heat-related illnesses. While outdoors, it is important to be able to recognize symptoms that could arise.
    Heat cramps involve intense pain in the calves and intestines and should be treated with water and rest in a cool area. Heat exhaustion involves extreme body heat, nausea, dizziness and fainting, and should be treated with a sports drink and by placing a wet cloth all over the body.
    The most dangerous of heat-related illnesses is heat stroke. Heat stroke involves rapid pulse, red skin and a body temperature around 106 degrees. If these symptoms are discovered, they should be taken very seriously with medical help, said Iglesias.
    "People might just think they are a little thirsty," she said, "but by the time you get thirsty already 10 percent of your body is dehydrated."
    Children are at the greatest risk for dehydration because they do not understand the signs. Family members should constantly monitor children's activities and always have cool drinks on hand.
    Although water is generally an answer to many summer ailments, it can also be dangerous, especially where pools and young children are involved. Drowning is a serious concern and can occur in just two inches of water. Designated supervisors should take turns watching the pool area, Iglesias said. Childproof gates and floatation devices should always be located near the pool.
    Outdoor grilling is another summer staple that should be carefully monitored. It is important to make sure that the grill is located over concrete or asphalt and at least 10 feet from a house or tree with a water supply nearby. The grill itself should be cleaned after each use as fat buildup can catch fire. Coals should be soaked in water to cool because they could smolder for hours, Iglesias said.
    Smoldering coals are not the only possible cause of fire outbreaks, and residents should be aware of how to handle themselves if a fire should start.
    "Public education has a key role in fire prevention," Iglesias said.
    For ultimate protection, smoke alarms are essential in each bedroom and living area. Smoke alarms with a flashing light for the hearing impaired are also available. Marion County Fire Rescue will provide and install two free smoke alarms if needed. Batteries should be changed twice a year, whether or not they are low.

The first week of May was arson awareness month in Marion County, and the fire department focused on preventing juvenile fire setting.

    When children are around, matches and candles should not be left unattended. Grandparents and parents should always fireproof their homes and recognize the times when a child should be disciplined about playing with fire.
    "When kids play with fire, it is not always meant in a malicious way," Iglesias said, "but lives can be lost and homes destroyed."
    Alarms that detect dangerous levels of carbon monoxide gas can also be purchased. These alarms should be installed in a central location as well as outside each sleeping area. They should also be interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound, according to the National Fire Prevention Association.
    If the CO alarm sounds, move to a fresh air location outside or by an open window or door and call the fire department.
    Generators and gas or charcoal grills can produce a significant amount of carbon monoxide and should only be operated outside. Cars also produce a massive amount of the killer gas and should never be left running in the garage, even if the door is open.
    Marion County recently began its Emergency Medical Service (EMS). The program is new, and firefighters are now duel certified to deal with both fires and emergency medical situations. The service is working to inform the public about what takes place between a 911 call and entering the emergency room.
    The county has transitioned from a private ambulance service to a fire-based service where a fire truck arrives at the scene with the ambulance. EMS personnel held a community-wide event on May 19 to explain to the public that firefighters are sufficiently qualified to assist a person in need of medical help.
    The Marion County Office of Public Information issues press releases warning residents about common threats. Along with the usual summer reminders like germs, outdoor burning guidelines and fire and water safety, the press releases also cover lesser known threats like dog bites. §