From the Fire Chief's Corner

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

March 19, 2025 (San Diego) - On March 9^th we changed our clocks "back" for daylight savings. Did you change your smoke detector batteries and check their condition asks Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna. Roughly two-thirds of home fire deaths occurred in homes without working smoke alarms. Since most fatal fires occur at night, it’s essential that every home have working smoke alarms to provide an early warning.

Eighty percent of child fire fatalities occur in homes without working smoke alarms additionally Adults 75 and older are 2.8 times more likely to die in a home fire.  A working smoke detector doubles your chance of surviving a home fire.

Change Your Clocks – Change Your Batteries

Batteries in a smoke alarm should be changed at least twice a year, even if they are hardwired into the electrical. A good time to remember to check your smoke alarm and change the batteries is when you change your clocks twice a year as daylight saving time begins and ends.

Placement

Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, in the hallways leading to the bedrooms, and on each level of your home including the basement. Smoke alarms should be mounted on the ceiling 4” from the wall; wall mounts should be 4-12” from the ceiling. Do not install near draft areas such as windows or vents. Call your local fire department if you are unsure about placement.

Smoke Alarm Maintenance

In addition to changing the batteries twice a year, you should test your smoke alarm every month by simply holding down on the test button. Vacuum your alarm at least once a year. Dust and cobwebs can impair sensitivity. Never paint over a smoke alarms. Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.

When the Alarm Goes Off

If the alarm goes off crawl low to the ground under the smoke and exit your home quickly. Don’t try to take anything with you, just get out. Once safely outside, go to your family meeting place to ensure that everyone got out safely. Once you’re out, Stay out!

Make sure to prepare and practice an escape plan including a family meeting place. Just like schools practice fire drills, families should also practice what to do if their smoke alarms go off.

Remember, almost every day a smoke alarm saves somebody’s life!

Note: The information in this article was compiled from various sources. These suggestions are not a complete list of every preventative or loss control measure. The information is not intended to replace additional safety manuals or the advice of another qualified professional(s). We make no guarantee of results from use of this information. We assume no liability in connection with the information nor the suggestions made.

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

January 16, 2025 (San Diego) -- Recent brush fires in Southern California have proven January is extremely dry. But there’s a different dry in January. Dry January is an annual challenge that encourages people to give up alcohol for the entire month. It has gained widespread popularity in recent years as individuals look to kickstart their year with a focus on health, detoxification, and self-care. Originating as a campaign by Alcohol Concern in 2013, it has grown into a global movement, with millions of people participating each year.

The benefits of taking part in Dry January are far-reaching. Abstaining from alcohol for a month can help reset the body, improve sleep quality, boost energy levels, and even lead to weight loss. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on one’s relationship with alcohol and assess whether drinking habits need adjustment in the long term. Whether you want to take a break from the habit or simply explore how life feels without alcohol, Dry January provides a supportive environment for positive change.

In addition to the health benefits, Dry January also highlights the importance of mental clarity and mindfulness. With alcohol-free events, social gatherings, and support networks becoming more common, participants are encouraged to engage in activities that nourish the mind and body without the need for alcohol.

How to Make the Most of Dry January

• Plan ahead for social occasions by researching alcohol-free alternatives or mocktail recipes.
• Track the physical benefits you’re experiencing, such as improved skin, better sleep, or more energy.
• Join a Dry January challenge or community group to connect with others for support and encouragement.
• Reflect on your drinking habits and consider whether making long-term changes could benefit your health.
• Experiment with new hobbies or activities that don’t revolve around drinking, such as yoga or learning a new skill.
• Set personal goals for the month, such as reducing alcohol consumption long-term or simply enjoying life without alcohol.
• Reward yourself with small treats when you hit milestones, like one week or two weeks of sobriety.
• Use this month as an opportunity to educate yourself about the effects of alcohol on the body and mind.
• Share your journey on social media to inspire others and raise awareness about the benefits of sobriety.
• Explore new alcohol-free brands and enjoy discovering new flavors and drinks.

*Note: The information in this article was compiled from various sources. These suggestions are not a complete list of every preventative or loss control measure. The information is not intended to replace additional safety manuals or the advice of another qualified professional(s). We make no guarantee of results from use of this information. We assume no liability in connection with the information nor the suggestions made.