Presented by Putnam County Emergency Services

Presented by Putnam County 2011 Emergency Services Fir e Wa t c h GUIDE

• Wildfire Risks & Hazards

• Fire prevention tips

• Commerical requirements

• Volunteers - How to help

A supplement to the Palatka Daily News Residents and Visitors of Putnam County,

Putnam County Department of Emergency Services is committed to fire prevention and safety. Fires are deadly, costly and devastating. Consider the following:

• More than 4,000 Americans die each year in fires and approximately 20,000 are injured (USFA) • A fire can destroy a home and everything in it in a matter of minutes. • The sentimental value of lost personal items and keepsakes cannot be estimated.

Putnam County Department of Emergency Services is working together with local and state agencies to remind everyone that fires are more prevalent in winter than any other season. This is due in part to improper heating use, holiday decorations and winter storms that interrupt electrical service and cause people to turn to alternative heating and lighting sources. These and many other things contribute to the increased risk of fire during the winter.

Although the risk of many types of fire is higher during colder months, fire prevention should be practiced all year long. Please use this guide and take measures to protect your life and your property. This publication was assembled in partnership with the Palatka Daily News so that you and your family can be “firewise.” There are many ways to prevent fires. It’s not a question of luck. It’s a matter of practicing and planning ahead! Sincerely, Quin Romay, Chief of Emergency Preparedness and Operations

Putnam County Board of County Commissioners District 1 District 2 District 3 Nancy Harris Chip Laibl, Chairman Kenny Eubanks District 4 District 5 Ed Taylor Brad Purcell www.putnam-fl.com

2 2011 -2012 Fi r e Wa t c h C ONTENTS R ESIDENTIAL RESIDENTIAL 911 ADDRESSING...... 3 911 ADDRESSING

Why Post Your 911 Address? COMMERCIAL REQUIREMENTS...... 4 When lives and property are at stake, every second counts. Properly posted address numbers can be a vital FIRE PREVENTION FOR ALL SEASONS...... link to your safety. A missing, incorrect or poorly marked 5-6 address can delay emergency response when seconds can literally mean the difference between life and death!

THINK FIREWISE...... 7 In the interest of public safety, Putnam County has passed a Uniform Addressing Ordinance, number 2006- 17. This ordinance requires that all homes and businesses WILDFIRES RISKS AND HAZARDS...... 8-9 display a visible correct street address. The address numbers must be affixed to the front of the building or to a separate structure such as a post, wall WATCH AND WARNING...... 9 or fence, so they are clearly visible from the roadway on which the building is addressed.

Building numbers shall be numbers (not Roman Numeral AFTER THE FIRE...... 10-11 or spelled out) and must be at least 3 inches tall and ½ inch wide for residential and 6 inches tall and ½ inch wide for commercial buildings. The numbers must contrast with the VOLUNTEER ...... 12 immediate background. Materials used should be durable and reflective.

It is important to periodically check your address for EXPLORERS PROGRAMS ...... 13 obstruction by paint or shrubbery. Remember, if you can’t see your address, neither can emergency responders!!!

FIREFIGHTERS ...... 14 If your home or business is located at a distance from the road, it is important to post the address on a fence or EMERGENCYPHONENUMBERS other structure that is easily visible from the road. FOR EMERGENCY DIAL...... 911 Non-emergency numbers Putnam County Emergency Management...... 386-329-0379 Putnam County Emergency Medical Services...... 386-329-0892 Putnam County Fire Services...... 386-329-0479 PutnamAlert.com City of Palatka...... 386-329-0100 Putnam County Sheriff...... 386-329-0800 - Register at PutnamAlert.com and Town of Welaka...... 386-467-3171 Town of Interlachen...... 386-684-3811 stay up to date with emergency Town of Pomona Park...... 386-649-4902 information in Putnam County. City of Crescent City...... 386-698-2525 Animal Control...... 386-329-0396 - Delivered to you on your home phone, Florida Division of Forestry Burn Authorizations...... 352-955-2010 cell phone and email.

www.putnamalert.com 3 C OMMERCIAL PROPERTY Commercial Fire Inspections Industrial and Manufacturing works with the volunteer and career and Safety Facilities: firefighters to complete Pre-Incident Fire plans for commercial structures to Putnam County Fire Prevention Office We work to ensure the use of safety minimize the potential for loss of life and is tasked with the Fire and Life Safety systems and to ensure these safety property in the event of a fire. These systems function as designed to protect Inspections of commercial buildings plans and information on businesses workers and the public from catastrophic within the County. These inspections is stored in the department database events. are conducted on a periodic basis and is available to responders during and involve a number of factors. Of emergency situations. concern to our office is the safety of the The Fire Prevention office also citizens. In all commercial structures we are responsible for ensuring the presence of fire extinguishers, exit signs, emergency lighting, and HAVE YOU SEEN THESE SIGNS? adequate paths of travel to reach the exits of a building. In some buildings Florida Statute, Section 633.027 and Florida we also ensure the presence and Administrative Code 69A-60.0081, require maintenance of Fire Alarm systems the owner of any commercial, industrial, or and Fire Sprinkler Systems. Items multi-unit residential structure of three units that are specific to certain businesses are listed below. or more constructed of light-frame truss-type construction to install a symbol adopted by rule Assemblies: 69A-60.0081 of the Florida Administrative Code. “Light-frame truss-type construction” means a Churches, auditoriums, theaters, Lightweight nightclubs and larger restaurants: type of construction whose primary structural Outward swinging doors with Truss Roof elements are formed by a system of repetitive panic hardware wood or light gauge steel framing members. Alarms and crowd management systems The symbols must be installed within 24 inches Fire Sprinkler Systems of the left side of the main entrance to the facility. Ensuring that all exits are It must be located between 4 feet and 6 feet accessible and unlocked above grade, walking surface, or finished floor. Depending on the number of main entrances Mercantile: and their locations, additional symbols may be Department Stores, Grocery required. These symbols are required on all Stores, Pharmacies, applicable buildings new and existing. Convenient Stores Lightweight Unobstructed isles and exits Truss Floor The symbol specifications are: Safe storage and display of Hazardous Products The Maltese Cross shall measure Alarms and Fire Sprinkler 8 inches horizontally and 8 inches vertically. Systems The Maltese Cross shall be a bright red reflective color. Schools and Hospitals, and Correctional Facilities: If you are unsure if you are required to have Ensuring the proper protection one of these symbols on your building, please of the unique occupants of these contact the Fire Marshal’s office at 386-329-1209 facilities by staff members due and we will answer any questions you may have. to the decreased ability to self Lightweight If a site inspection is necessary we will come out rescue. Truss free of charge to help guide you in compliance Roof/Floor with this rule.

4 2011 -2012 Fi r e Wa t c h F IRE PREVENTION -For All Seasons in all new home construction. and home fire deaths.

The Fire Prevention Division Candles Heating Equipment of Emergency Services is tasked Take care when burning candles. Never When purchasing new heating with protecting the public from fire leave candles burning overnight or when equipment, make sure it has the mark of disasters through public education, you leave home. an independent testing laboratory. code enforcement, and fire prevention Be sure candles are placed in sturdy, Install and maintain heating equipment and investigations. In natural disaster non-combustible holders and are kept correctly, and be sure it complies with situations the Fire Prevention Division well away from decorations and other local fire and building codes. works in support of Emergency combustible materials. Where possible, have local building Management and fire personnel. There Check candles frequently to make sure or fire officials check the installation and are many ways to protect your family, they don’t burn down too far or drip hot maintenance. home, and business from fire before, wax. during and after disasters strike. Don’t leave children unattended in a Portable and Other Space Heaters room with lit candles, and always keep Practice Fire Safety All Year Long candles, as well as matches and lighters, Portable and space heaters can be up high, out of the reach of children. either electric-powered or fueled by Secure all gas cans and other Don’t display lighted candles in windows flammables making them less accessible or near exits in case you need these to to vandals and arsonists. escape. Always stay alert when cooking Keep flashlights and fresh batteries on and never leave cooking unattended. hand to use for lighting in the event of a Unattended cooking is the leading cause power outage. of home fires in the U.S., so “stand by your pan!” WINTER Be careful when smoking. Never smoke in bed and always fully extinguish smoking December, January and February are materials before discarding them. the leading months for U.S. home fires Check your electrical outlets to ensure that circuits are not overloaded. Minimize the use of power strips, extension cords and outlet expanders. Keep your grill a safe distance from your home and deck. Be observant and report all suspicious activity to local authorities. Use caution when fueling generators. Fuel spilling on hot engine parts may ignite and cause serious injuries Never use generators indoors. Lethal carbon monoxide can build up in your home. Always change the batteries in your smoke alarms TWICE each year. Install carbon monoxide alarms in your home to alert you to the presence of this lethal and otherwise undetectable gas. Consider home fire sprinkler systems

www.putnamalert.com 5 For All Seasons continued gas, liquid fuel (usually kerosene), or solid Review your family’s Fire Escape Plan. Keep all matches and lighters away fuel (usually wood). Fuels for lawn and garden equipment from children. Supervise children around All types must be kept at least 36 inches should be stored in an approved container outdoor grills. (1 meter) from anything that can burn, only. Dispose of hot coals properly - douse including furniture, bedding, clothing, pets Pesticides and chemicals should be them with plenty of water, and stir them and people. stored in an approved container and away to ensure that the fire is out. Never Space heaters must not be left operating from children. place them in plastic, paper or wooden when you are not in the room or when you Swimming pool chemicals should containers. go to sleep. be stored according to manufacturer Never grill/barbecue in enclosed areas, Children and pets should be supervised guidelines. carbon monoxide could be produced. at all times when space heaters are in Campfire Safety - Build campfires use. Summer where they will not spread, away from dry If you have an electric space heater, grass and leaves. check each season for fraying or splitting Fireworks Safety - The best way to Keep campfires small, and don’t let wires or overheating. Have all problems enjoy fireworks is to visit public fireworks them get out of hand. repaired by a professional before displays put on by professionals who Keep plenty of water and a shovel operating the space heater. know how to safely handle fireworks. around to douse the fire when you’re done. Portable Kerosene Heaters - If you If you plan to use fireworks, make sure Stir it and douse it again with water. have a liquid-fueled space heater, use they are legal in your area. Never leave campfires unattended. only the fuel recommended by the Never light fireworks indoors or near manufacturer. dry grass. Fall Always turn off the heater and let it Always have a bucket of water and/or cool down completely before adding a fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to Never park your car or truck over a pile fuel. Wipe up any spills promptly. operate the fire extinguisher properly. of leaves or dry grass. Do not wear loose clothing while using Check all smoke and carbon monoxide Fireplaces - If you decorate your fireworks. detectors to make sure they work, and fireplace with Christmas stockings Stand several feet away from lit change the batteries. or other seasonal decorations, don’t fireworks. If a device does not go off, do Have heating appliances serviced and burn fires in it. not stand over it to investigate it. Put it out chimney flues examined for defects. Holiday Entertaining - Use with water and dispose of it. Have fireplaces and fireplace dampers caution with holiday decorations and Always read the directions and warning checked. whenever possible, choose those labels on fireworks. If a device is not Fireplaces should be equipped with an made with flame-retardant or non- marked with the contents, direction and a appropriate screen or glass enclosure. combustible materials. warning label, do not light it. Wood burning stoves should be Christmas Trees - Choose a fresh Supervise children around fireworks at examined and the flue and chimney Christmas tree, and put it in a stand all times. checked for creosote buildup. designed not to tip over. Barbecue Safety - Before using a Use only seasoned woods, and avoid Place the tree well away from grill, check the connection between the soft woods like pine. heat sources and exits, and water propane tank and the fuel line. Make sure Never use a flammable liquid to start a it constantly. the venturi tubes - where the air and gas fireplace. Replace any frayed or damaged mix - are not blocked. Never overload the hearth with wood or cords. Do not overfill the propane tank. artificial logs, the resulting fire may be too For outside decorations, use only Do not wear loose clothing while large for the unit. those lights labeled for outdoor cooking at a barbecue. Put all ashes outdoors and away from use. Always unplug all lights before Be careful when using lighter fluid. Do the house in a metal container. leaving home or going to sleep and not add fluid to an already lit fire. Have a useable fire extinguisher don’t overload electrical outlets. available. Under no circumstances is it safe to use candles to decorate Christmas trees!

Spring

Fire extinguishers should be checked and recharged if necessary. Air Conditioning units and electrical cords should be checked. Be careful when burning yard debris. This is very dangerous.

6 2011 -2012 Fi r e Wa t c h THINK FIREWISE Florida’s population has a fire on the ground from spreading experienced rapid growth, particularly to the tree tops. Within the defensible in the “wildland/urban interface” - the space, remove flammable plants that WANT A FIREWISE PROGRAM FOR area on the edge of towns where contain resins, oils and waxes that developments are close to forests and burn readily: palmetto, wax myrtle, YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD? other wildlands. Fire is a natural part of yaupon holly, red cedar, and young these areas, however wildfire threats pine. can create a hazard for residents. Goal: To raise awareness • Talk with experts On average, Florida experiences the Emergency Access of wildfire hazards to and other community 2nd highest number of wildfires in the Identify your home and neighborhood property and encourage members about how to simple actions to improve address wildfires issues. nation.(FDOF) with legible and clearly marked street safety from wildfires. names and numbers so emergency Free Materials: Fire-resistant Roof Construction vehicles can rapidly find the location of 2-3 hour Program Firewise construction materials the emergency. Include a driveway that • How to Have a Firewise include Class-A asphalt shingles, is at least 12 feet wide with a vertical Objectives: Home CD • Risk Assessment metal, cement and concrete products. clearance of 15 feet -to provide access • To learn how to protect Guidebook Additionally, the inclusion of a fire- to emergency apparatus. your own property • Informational Fliers resistant sub-roof adds protection. from wildfire and assist All workshops are hands emergency workers. on and interactive and • To provide information include presentations, Fire-resistant Exterior Construction about why homes burn. videos, computer Wall materials which resist heat and • To learn about fire’s simulations, and flames include cement, plaster, stucco natural role in Florida. discussion. and concrete masonry. Double pane glass windows can make a home more Activities: For more information and to schedule a resistant to wildfire heat and flames. • To understand local Free Workshop wildfire issues and Lean, Clean and Green threats. Putnam County Landscaping • Learn how to assess whether your home and Emergency With firewise landscaping, you can neighborhood is at risk. Management Services create defensible space around your • Learn what you can do home that reduces your wildfire threat. to lower your risk from 386-326-2793 Large, leafy, hardwood trees should wildfire. be pruned so that the lowest branches • Learn about fire’s natural role in Florida. are at least 6 to 10 ft high to prevent

ROUGHT INDEX TheD Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) is used by the Florida Division of Forestry to indicate the dryness of the soil and surface fuels. High values of the drought index are associated with severe wildfire outbreaks such as the wildfire that occurred during 1998.

VERY LOW LOW NORMAL MODERATE SEVERE WINTER 0-100 101-180 181-400 401-540 541-800 SPRING 0-200 201-280 281-530 531-700 701-800 SUMMER 0-160 161-240 241-460 461-620 621-800 FALL 0-160 161-220 221-400 401-530 531-800

www.putnamalert.com 7 WILDFIRES RISKS AND HAZARDS Wildland Urban Interface and instructions. resistant curtains and other combustible Place valuable papers and mementos materials from around windows. Over the past fifty years, more and in the car. If available, close fire resistant drapes, more Floridians have moved out of the Wear protective clothing – sturdy shutters or venetian blinds. cities to build homes and businesses shoes, cotton, or woolen clothing, long Turn off all pilot lights. in the outlying fringe areas known as pants, a long sleeved shirt, gloves and a Move flammable furniture into the the wildland urban interface. When dry handkerchief to protect your face. center of the home, away from windows years come, Florida experiences severe Choose a route away from fire hazards. and sliding glass doors. wildfires – wildfires that destroy homes, Watch for changes in the speed and disrupt people’s lives and impact our direction of fire and smoke. For more information, contact your If you have time before you evacuate, community. local Division of Forestry Office at take these steps to protect your home: 352-955-2010 or log on to Why Homes Burn Protect the exterior of your home. http://www.fl-dof.com Close all exterior doors and windows. Wildland urban interface homes are Place combustible patio furniture in the usually lost because of the “little things” house or garage. KNOW THE LAW associated with the two most vulnerable Shut off propane at the tank or natural parts of a home: the roof and the area gas at the meter. Did You Know? immediately surrounding the structure. Make sure all garden hoses are The most vulnerable part of the house connected to faucets and attach a nozzle Escaped debris burning is one of the is the roof and soffits. Wood shingles set on “spray.” leading causes of wildfires in Florida. can easily catch fire from flying fire Fill trash cans and other containers with The Florida Division of Forestry brands. Roofs with fire resistant water. Soak rags, towels or small rugs administers Florida’s outdoor burning and shingles can also catch fire from with water to use in beating out embers forest fire laws. embers if there is an accumulation of or small fires. Some types of burning require an leaves and pine needles on the roof Consider placing lawn sprinklers on the authorization from the Division of Forestry and in the gutters. Exposed eaves roof if water pressure is adequate. while others do not. can allow fire brands into the attic and Wet or remove shrubs within fifteen Burning yard debris does not require catch the roof on fire. Vinyl soffits feet of the home. an authorization but you must follow the are not recommended in fire prone rules for your area. areas unless they have backing of Protect the interior of your home. 1/8” noncombustible (wire) mesh. Burning Authorization Required They melt easily and can allow fire Close all interior doors. brands in the attic area. Leave a light on in each room to Agricultural, silvicultural, land clearing, increase the visibility of your home in pile and acreage burning all require a When Wildfire Threatens heavy smoke. burning authorization from the Division of Remove lightweight and/or non-fire Forestry. Should your house be threatened by wildfire, you may be advised to evacuate by government officials. Do not try to fight the fire yourself if you have been asked to evacuate the area.

Protect Your Family

Evacuate all family members as well as pets. Include special items needed for infant, elderly or disabled family members and pets. Contact a friend or relative and relay your plans of where you are going. Tune into a local television or radio station and listen for updates

8 2011 -2012 Fi r e Wa t c h You may burn yard Burning Authorization Not debris as long as: Required You meet the required setbacks and no local, Authorization is not required to burn city or county ordinances yard debris as long as you meet the prohibit burning. required setbacks and there are no local, The yard debris was city or county ordinances in place that generated on your prohibit burning. Check with your local, property and it will fit city and county officials to find out if there in an 8-foot diameter are any restrictions in your area. pile or non-combustible container. Your fire is ignited after What Is Yard Debris? 9:00am Eastern Time and is extinguished one Yard debris is vegetative debris such as hour before sunset. grass clippings, brush, leaves, tree limbs, Smoke is not a hazard palm fronds, etc., that are a result of yard or nuisance. maintenance. NOTE: Piles greater than 8-feet in diameter will require an authorization from the Division of Forestry, must have suppression equipment emergency on hand, and need to SUPPLIES meet additional setback requirements. WATCH & WARNINGS It is illegal to burn household garbage When wildfire threatens, you (including paper products), treated The National Weather Service won’t have time to shop or search lumber, plastics, rubber materials, tires, in Jacksonville issues Red Flag for supplies. Assemble a Disaster pesticides, paint and aerosol containers. Warnings & Fire Weather Watches Supplies Kit with items you may Outdoor Burning Tips to alert fire departments of the onset, need if advised to evacuate. Store or possible onset, of critical weather these supplies in sturdy, easy-to Check with your local Division of and dry conditions that could lead carry containers. Forestry office to make sure it is legal to to rapid or dramatic increases in Include: burn in your area. wildfire activity. • A three-day supply of water (one Make sure you meet the required gallon per person per day) and setbacks. A Red Flag Warning is issued food that won’t spoil. Clear an area down to bare soil for weather events, which may • One change of clothing and around your pile to prevent your fire from result in extreme fire behavior that footwear per person and one spreading. will occur within 24 hours. blanket or sleeping bag per Burn only yard debris, no household garbage (includes paper products and person. newspapers). A Red Flag Warning is the • A first aid kit that includes Cover a non-combustible container with highest alert. During these times, your family’s prescription wire mesh to keep sparks from flying out all residents urge extreme caution, medications. and starting new fires. because a simple spark can cause • Emergency tools including a Don’t burn on windy days. a major wildfire. battery-powered radio, flashlight Never leave a fire unattended. and plenty of extra batteries. Keep a water hose or shovel handy in A Fire Weather Watch is issued • An extra set of car keys and a case your fire escapes. when fire weather conditions could credit card, cash or traveler’s Make sure your smoke does not exist in the next 12-72 hours. checks. obstruct visibility on nearby roads. • Sanitation supplies. Be sure your fire is completely out before you leave. A Fire Weather Watch is one • Special items for infant, elderly or Remember.. if your fire escapes, you level below a warning, but fire disabled family members. may be liable for costs of suppression danger is still high. The type of • An extra pair of eyeglasses. Keep and damage to the property of others. weather patterns that can cause important family documents in a If you have questions on outdoor a watch or warning include low waterproof container. Assemble burning, please contact your local Division relative humidity, strong winds, dry a smaller version of your kit to of Forestry Office at 352-955-2010 or visit fuels, the possibility of dry lightning keep in the trunk of your car. our website at “http://www.fl-dof.com” strikes, or any combination of the above. www.putnamalert.com 9 AFTER THE FIRE - Recovery from a fire RETURN TO NORMAL site will be unoccupied. F Your fire and police department F Your utility companies Recovering from a fire can be a In some cases it may be necessary physically and mentally draining to board up openings to discourage Do not throw away any damaged process. trespassers. goods until after an inventory is made. All When fire strikes, lives are suddenly damages are taken into consideration in turned around. Often, the hardest part Beginning immediately, save receipts developing your insurance claim. is knowing where to begin and who to for any money you spend. These receipts contact. are important in showing the insurance If you are considering contracting for company what money you have spent inventory or repair services discuss your THE FIRST 24 HOURS related to your fire loss and also for plans with your insurance agent/company verifying losses claimed on your income first. Securing Yourself and the Site tax. IF YOU ARE INSURED Contact your local human service If it is safe to do so, try to locate the relief center, such as the American following items: Give notice of the loss to the insurance Red Cross or the Salvation Army, F Identification, such as driver’s company or the insurer’s agent/company. to help with your immediate needs, licenses and Social Security cards Ask the insurance company what to such as: F Insurance information do about the immediate needs of the F Temporary housing F Medication information dwelling, such as covering doors, windows F Food F Eyeglasses, hearing aids or other and other exposed ares, and pumping out F Medicine prosthetic devices water. F Eyeglasses F Valuables, such as credit cards, F Clothing bank books, cash and jewelry Ask your insurance agent/company F Other essential items what actions are required of you. Some F Contact your insurance There are many people/entities that policyholders may be required to make an agent/company. should be notified of your relocation, inventory of damaged personal property including: showing in detail the quantity, description Cautions F Your insurance agent/company and how much you paid for the items. F Your mortgage company (also Do not enter the damaged site. inform them of the fire) IF YOU ARE NOT INSURED Fires can rekindle from hidden, F Your family and friends smoldering remains. F Your employer Your recovery from a loss may be F Your child’s school based upon your own resources and help Normally, the fire department F Your post office from your community. will confirm that utilities (water, F Any delivery services F Private organizations that may electricity and natural gas) are either safe to use or are disconnected before they leave the site. Do not attempt to turn on utilities yourself. Be watchful for structural damage caused by the fire. Roofs and floors may be damaged and subject to collapse.

Food, beverages and medicine exposed to heat, smoke, soot and water should not be consumed.

Leaving Your Home

Contact your local police departments to let them know the

10 2011 -2012 Fi r e Wa t c h be sources of aid or information: fire damaged structures. F American Red Cross Whether you or your REPLACEMENT OF VALUABLE DOCUMENTS AND RECORDS F Salvation Army insurer employs this type Here’s a check list of documents you will need to replace if they have been F Religious organizations of service, be clear of destroyed, and who to contact for information on the replacement process. F Department of social services F Civic organizations who will pay. Be sure to F State or municipal emergency request an estimate of Driver’s license, Auto registration Department of motor vehicles cost for the work. Before services office Bank books (checking, savings, etc.) your bank, as soon as possible F Non-profit crisis counseling any company is hired centers check their references. Insurance policies Your Insurance agent These companies provide Military discharge papers Department of Veterans Affairs a range of services that VALUING YOUR PROPERTY Passports Passport Service You will encounter different viewpoints may include some or all on the value of your property in adjusting of the following: Birth, death and marriage certificates Bureau of Records in the appropriate state your fire loss or in claiming loss on Divorce papers Circuit Court where decree was issued your federal income tax. Knowing the F Securing the site Social Security or Medicare cards Local social security office following terms will help you understand against further damage the process used to determine the value F Estimating structural Credit Cards The issuing companies as soon as possible of your fire loss: damage Titles to deeds Records department in locality where located F Repairing structural Stocks and bonds Issuing company or your broker Your personal valuation: your personal damage loss of goods through fire may be difficult F Estimating the cost to Wills Your attorney to measure. These personal items have repair or renew items of Medical records Your doctor sentimental value to you; however, it is personal property. Warranties Issuing company objective measures of value that you, F Packing, transportation, the insurer, and the Internal Revenue and storage of household Income tax records The IRS Center where filed or your accountant Service will use as a common ground items Citizenship papers U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service for discussion. Some of these objective F Securing appropriate Prepaid burial contract Issuing company measures are discussed below. cleaning or repair subcontractors Animal registration paper Humane Society Cost when purchased: This is an F Strong repaired items Mortgage papers Lending institution important element in establishing an until needed. item’s final value. Receipts will help verify the cost price.

Fair market value before the fire: This concept is also expressed as Actual Cash Value. This is what you could have received for the item if you had sold it the day before the fire. The price would reflect its cost at purchase minus the wear it had sustained since purchase. Depreciation is the formal term used to express the amount of value an item loses over a period of time.

Value after the fire: This is sometimes called the item’s salvage value.

Restoration Services There are companies that specialize in the restoration of

www.putnamalert.com 11 V OLUNTEER How Do I Become a Volunteer situation. Volunteer Fire Service Facts: and Why??? The training you receive as a Volunteer Every 23 seconds, somewhere in this There are 18 Volunteer Fire Firefighter can also be built on with other country firefighters are responding to an Departments in Putnam County and classes in order to begin a career in a emergency. About ¾ of those firefighters even though the application process is paid service. For example, Firefighter I are volunteers. a little different at every department it is is part of the career standard Firefighter II. So you get all of the benefits and if still a fairly easy process. All you need Putnam County has 18 Volunteer Fire you really enjoy it you can bridge over to do is fill out an application. Your Departments with 454 members. Four to classes to begin a career. Over 50% application will be processed through of the 18 Departments have some paid the department then through the County. of the current Putnam County Fire and staff. East Palatka and Satsuma have 2 Upon successful review, approval will EMS staff began their careers as Putnam paid firefighters on duty 8am until 8pm follow. Upon successful completion of County volunteers. the background and other checks and Monday through Friday. Crescent City official approval, you will be added So what are you waiting for? Go to your and Melrose have one paid Firefighter to the current roster and eligible to local VFD or contact the Putnam County 8am until 5pm Monday through Friday. participate in the V.I.P. Program, Fire Division at (386) 329-0234. Help us; workers compensation and other help you and your family. Each Fire Department’s annual perks provided by the Board of County operational budget is different, based Commissioners. BECOME A VOLUNTEER!! on call volume and other factors. The Volunteer Fire Stations are allocated Why should you become a monies annually from County fire tax. Don’t want to train to be a firefighter, volunteer??? This budget is to provide fuel, medical but still want to help...WE NEED YOU supplies, fire equipment, communication That is another easy explanation with a multitude of reasons. Here are JOIN THE SUPPORT TEAM just a few: These individuals are dispatched Becoming a Volunteer firefighter to set up a rehab area for firefighters is the most rewarding way to serve to rest, eat, and rehydrate. This is your community and help your a very important job to assist in neighbor. keeping our firefighters safe and healthy. The most personally rewarding reason is the sense of family that is Other skills needed in the in the Volunteer Fire Service. Once departments are web designers, a volunteer firefighter you are part maintenance, fund rising organizers, of a family and a team. Many times bookkeepers, and other skills as your lives depend on each other; determined by the department. therefore, you tend to become very close friends, and more times than not these friends are there for you and your family no matter what the

12 2011 -2012 Fi r e Wa t c h devices (pagers), electricity and other each member with normal operating expenses. an annual firefighter It costs almost $7500 per firefighter to standards physical provide the protective clothing to keep a exam. firefighter safe while fighting fires. The majority of fire Putnam County’s VIP (Volunteer departments in the Incentive Program) provides to all United States are Volunteers a small stipend to assist with staffed by volunteers. covering some of the costs associated with volunteering. The stipend begins at Of the total 30,170 $4 per call and increases to $8 per call fire departments in upon successful completion of Florida the country, 21,235 Fire Fighter I certification. The program are all volunteer; also covers the tuition and books for 4,830 are mostly Florida Certification Firefighting Minimum volunteer; 1,790 are Standards and Emergency Medical mostly career; and Technician. This program also provides 2,315 are all career. E XPLORERS PROGRAMS The Exploring program has a long Girls would be admitted to posts as “They have an opportunity to have history within the BSA. The program got determined by their chartering more ride time than those in school its start in the 1930s as the “Senior organization. Also in 1971, the upper age as EMTs. This is a great way for Scout” Division for boys 15 and older. In of Exploring was raised to 20 from 17. By them to get a hands on feel for a 1949, the Senior Scout Division became the 1990s, girls comprised about half of career in Fire Rescue,” Flateau the Explorer Division. Explorer membership. said. In January of 1959, National replaced The group has also performed the Explorer program with the Exploring Career Focused Exploring & Learning fund raisers as service projects to program. for Life local groups such as the MDA boot drive and participated in Relay for Exploring Program In August of 1998, National split Life in full bunker gear. Exploring in two. The various career “I think its important for them to The Exploring program was a radical oriented Exploring Posts, as well as the see a service to others aspect. We change from the Explorer program. Most Career Awareness Exploring, would be do this job to help others,” he activities would be built around six moved over to the BSA’s Learning for Life added. experience areas: Citizenship, Service, subsidiary, after which they would be For information on Fire Rescue Social, Vocational, Outdoor, and Personal refereed to as the Learning for Life/ Exploring contact Paul Flateau at Fitness. Posts would also be encouraged Explorers. By doing so, Explorers would 386-559-2143. to have a particularly large ‘super activity’ no longer be members of the BSA, no around their interest. More so than under longer needing to adhere to BSA the Explorer program, Exploring posts membership standards. would be marked by specialty posts, especially in vocational areas. These Putnam County Explorers Today career focused posts would soon become among the most widespread of all the Over the years Putnam County has specialties. In addition, Explorers would had several Explorer Posts, most notably get their own Code and Motto. Before with various volunteer fire departments they just used the Boy Scout Oath, Law, and Putnam County Emergency and Motto. Overall, we see the Exploring Services. program move away from being just an According to Paul Flateau, senior advanced Boy Scout program into a more advisor for Post 811, explorers have the unique and separate program. ability to participate in Basic Life Support In 1969, the BSA allowed young women competitions, provide support for ages 14–20 to join special-interest firefighters at fire scenes, learn patient Explorer posts, which caused many posts assessments and ride with the rescue to be become co-ed. Then in April of units to name a few. 1971, Explorers officially went co-ed. www.putnamalert.com 13 F IRE FIGHTERS Firefighter Training: ladders, hoses, tools and equipment, To begin your volunteer career with forcible entry, your local department you will begin salvage, overhaul, by taking 3 federal mandated on-line ventilation, rescue, classes from FEMA. These classes protective breathing will help you to understand how equipment, water incident command is established and supplies, principles of maintained. They are called NIMS 100, in-service inspections, 200, and 700. Completion of these and safety. Upon classes can be done at your own pace successful completion and from your own home, provided you of this class you will have internet. be eligible to take the Florida Firefighter I Prior to driving any County insured certification exam. emergency vehicle you will be required to successfully complete a 16 hour All of the above Emergency Vehicle Operator Class. training is offered free This class is 8 hours of class room of charge to all Putnam and 8 hours of driving. The driving County Volunteer Fire portion allows you to drive several Service Volunteers. different types of emergency vehicles Putnam County in a controlled environment. provides additional Fire service related The initial medical training course training including is the First Responder class. This Firefighter II, EMT, is a 40 hour class and is taught Fire Officer, pump throughout the County at many operator, and many locations. This class includes CPR more. and general first aid.

The Division of Forestry governs Wildland firefighting. We currently hold the NWCG S130/S190 40hour wildland firefighting class. Upon successful completion of this course you will be eligible to test for the Florida “Red Card”. This card will allow you to provide mutual Aid wildland firefighting anywhere in the State of Florida when needed.

Firefighter I is a 230 hour basic structure firefighting class that is offered semi-annually. The fire fighter program content includes, but is not limited to, orientation to the fire service, fire alarms and communication, vehicles, apparatus and equipment, fire behavior, portable extinguishers, fire streams, fundamentals of extinguishment,

14 2011 -2012 Fi r e Wa t c h A PPLICATION PUTNAM COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES FIRE DIVISION 410 State Road 19, Palatka, FL 32177 386-329-0234 Fax: 386-329-0897 Applicant Records Check

Print Name: (Last) (First) (Middle) (Maiden)

Date of Birth / / Sex: Race:

Mailing Address:

9-1-1 Address:

City:

State: Zip

SSN:

Home Phone: Cell:

Drivers License #:

Station or Explorer Post #:

I hereby authorize this Agency to check any and all records pertaining to criminal convictions and driver license information, and for any law enforcement agency to release information regarding any violations under Florida Statutes or Statutes of other Jurisdiction. I understand if accepted as a Volunteer a physical exam and drug screen will be required and provided by Putnam County.

Signature: Date:

! www.putnamalert.com To the Residents of Putnam County:

We are pleased to present this copy of Fire Watch for 2011. Unexpected fires, whether in the home, at a business or as a wildfire, have the potential to cause long term and permanent damage to those who become victims. It is our hope that this magazine will help reduce the potential for a fire to damage lands, Nancy Harris DISTRICT 1 homes and businesses in Putnam County. 698-2776 Wildfires are expected to be particularly active in 2011 due to current conditions mirroring those in previous active years. Most of us live in rural areas, and we urge all residents to do everything possible to increase the probability your home will survive a wildfire.

Chip Laibl, Chair In Putnam County we are dependent on both our volunteer and paid DISTRICT 2 firefighters who serve our community. Our volunteers spend hours 329-0210 training and responding to calls in our county. These departments always are in need of more help. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter or assisting our support personnel for fire scenes, please fill out the application on page 15.

It is our hope that you will find this publication helpful and informative. Please keep it handy as a resource for the potential fire hazards we face throughout the year. There is nothing more Kenny Eubanks DISTRICT 3 tragic than watching families lose their home or a small business 329-0213 close due to a fire. We would also like to remind you that you can sign up for emergency notifications through Putnam Alert system (registration information is available on page 3).

Working together to keep our community safe, Your Board of County Commissioners Ed Taylor DISTRICT 4 329-0205

Brad Purcell DISTRICT 5 329-0214

16 2011 -2012 Fi r e Wa t c h