Fire

Fire Station

8552 Parkside Drive, Chesterland, Ohio 44026

Business Phone: (440) 729-9951

Fax: (440) 729-6261

Chief William J. Shaw

Email: firechief@chestertwp.org

Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors are devices that are mounted on the wall or ceiling and automatically sound a warning when they sense smoke or other products of combustion. When people are warned early enough about a fire, they can escape before it spreads. Prices start at about $6 and up.

Every year thousands of people die from fires in the home. Fire kills an estimated 4,000 Americans every year. Another 30,000 people are seriously injured by fire each year. Property damage from fire costs us at least $11.2 billion yearly. Most fire victims feel that fire would “never happen to them.”

Although we like to feel safe at home, about 2-thirds of our nation’s fire deaths happen in the victim’s own home. The home is where we are at the greatest risk and where we must take the most precautions. Most deaths occur from inhaling smoke or poisonous gases, not from the flames.

Most fatal fires occur in residential buildings between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. when occupants are more likely to be asleep. More than 90 percent of fire deaths in buildings occur in residential dwellings.

A Johns Hopkins University study, funded by the United States Fire Administration, found that 75 percent of residential fire deaths and 84 percent of residential fire injuries could have been prevented by smoke detectors.

Chester Township Fire Rescue, in conjunction with the American Red Cross, can provide smoke detectors if you are unable to do so. We can assist the elderly with the installation of smoke detectors also.  Call the fire station at 440-729-9951 for assistance with your smoke detectors.

Home Safety Information

Fires in residential homes can be some of the most deadly. We all know the layout of our homes and where everything is. To get out quickly under normal conditions is relatively easy. When a fire occurs, the situation changes rapidly.

• There is panic and confusion.
• Smoke obscures your vision. Unlike the movies and TV where the smoke is easy to see through, smoke from a fire is thick and dark making it hard to see.
• Smoke contains carbon monoxide and other poisonous gasses that will affect your ability to think and act.

With the use of plastics and lightweight construction, the time you have to escape a fire has been reduced compared to years ago. That’s why it is so important to exit the home at the first sign of a fire and call the fire department.

Here are a few, easy to follow home safety tips:

• Have working smoke detectors.
• Have an accessible fire extinguisher.
• Sleep with your door closed. This simple step can give you an extra 20 – 30 minutes of time.
• Practice fire drills in the home.

By following these few simple tips, you can lessen the chances of a tragedy occurring.