2010 News Releases:

Clearview, Wash.  –  Firefighters with Snohomish County Fire District 7 helped support  seven local families this holiday season. Each of Fire District 7’s fire stations adopted one family in need, buying them holiday gifts they wouldn’t otherwise be able to give their children.
“It was a great feeling to be able to come together and give back to our community,” explained Lieutenant Joe Basta, who organized this year’s gift giving. “Although this isn’t the kind of crisis we respond to every day, we recognize that for many families there wouldn’t be gifts this year without help from others.”
IAFF Local 2781, which represents Fire District 7 firefighters, helped sponsor the gift giving.
Fire District 7 fire stations are also drop-off sites for the Maltby Food Bank. For a list of needed donations, please visit www.maltbyfoodbank.org  or call 360-668-7900.
For more information on IAFF Local 2781, visit www.iafflocal2781.org.
For more information on Snohomish County Fire District 7, visit www.firedistrict7.com, or contact Public Information Officer Autumn Waite at 360-282-3956 or awaite@firedistrict7.com. 

Clearview, Wash. - Just before 1 a.m., Snohomish County Fire District 7 was dispatched to the 9100 block of 222nd St. SE in Maltby for a report of a tree into a home with one person trapped. While responding, one crew had to cut and remove a tree that was blocking their route to the home. As crews arrived, the occupant of the home had freed his legs, but was still unable to move. Firefighters cautiously assisted the man out of his bedroom, which was filled with debris from trees that had fallen. The man was not injured and family had arrived to help care for him. His dog that was inside was also okay.
Within the next ½ hour, Fire District 7 crews were dispatched to an additional 12 calls. Ten of those calls were weather related, involving downed trees or power lines. One in the 2500 block of Stafford Way involved a tree into the bathroom of a home. No one was injured and they were able to get out of the house safely. The other two calls were aid related.
As of 2 a.m., Fire District 7 crews were continuing to be dispatched to other weather related calls.

As Thanksgiving approaches, many people will sit down to an appetizing turkey dinner with family and friends.  Snohomish County Fire District 7 encourages residents to cook up some “fire safety” to help ensure that tragedy does not become a part of this holiday season.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and fire injuries. 

“Care should always be taken while working in the kitchen, but people should be extra cautious around the holidays,” explained Fire District 7 Public Educator Autumn Waite. “Preparing the Thanksgiving meal is often a group project, which means more people in the kitchen leading to a greater chance for a mishap to occur.”  

In an effort to ensure people have a happy and safe Thanksgiving Day, Snohomish County Fire District 7 offers the following safety tips:

• Start your holiday cooking with a clean stove and oven, removing grease buildup and food spills to lessen the chance of a flare-up.
• Use the back burners whenever possible and keep the pot handles turned in so they can’t be easily bumped into or grabbed by a child.
• Never leave cooking food unattended.
• If a small fire starts in a pan on the stove, put on an oven mitt and carefully slide the lid over the pan to smother the flames then turn off the burner.  Never pour water on a grease fire.
• If there is a fire in the oven or microwave, keep the door closed and turn off the heat or unplug the appliance immediately. 
• If there is a power outage while you are cooking, be sure to turn off all of your cooking appliances until the power is restored.
• Keep your family and overnight guests safe with plenty of working smoke alarms. Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home
• Keep holiday decorations away from heat sources such as stoves, candles or heaters.

Special information concerning Turkey Fryers from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

NFPA discourages the use of outdoor gas-fueled turkey fryers that immerse the turkey in hot oil. These turkey fryers use a substantial quantity of cooking oil at high temperatures, and units currently available for home use pose a significant danger that hot oil will be released at some point during the cooking process. The use of turkey fryers by consumers can lead to devastating burns, other injuries and the destruction of property. NFPA urges those who prefer fried turkey to seek out professional establishments, such as grocery stores, specialty food retailers, and restaurants for the preparation of the dish, or consider a new type of "oil-less" turkey fryer."

A little practice can go a long way when it comes to safety around the Thanksgiving holiday.  Please practice safety all year long and have a fire safe holiday.

At 7:32 a.m., Snohomish County Fire District 7 responded to a report of a deck fire in the 2600 block of 189th St. SE in Bothell (unincorporated Snohomish County). Updated reports indicated the deck was fully involved and spreading to the attic. When crews arrived, the fire was in the attic and quickly spreading throughout the home. No one was home, and two dogs and a goat that were outside were okay. Other small pets inside the home were unaccounted for.

The Snohomish County Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire. The house is expected to be a complete loss.

Overall, 22 fire/EMS personnel responded, including a regional Air Support unit from Snohomish County Fire District 26.

Although no one was home at the time of this fire, smoke alarms were sounding. Fire District 7 would like to remind residents to make sure they have working smoke alarms in each bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement. Change smoke alarm batteries every six months and test alarms monthly. Make sure your family has a home escape plan and practice your plan at least twice per year.

The Snohomish County Sherriff’s Office is conducting a death investigation, and the Snohomish County Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire.

Overall, approximately 24 fire personnel responded, including one unit from Monroe Fire District 3. Information on the victim will be released by the Snohomish County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Clearview, Wash.   –  As the temperature outside drops, Fire District 7 families take to the indoors to keep safe and warm. What they may not realize is that turning up the heat can increase the risk of home heating fires.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), half of all home-heating fires occur during the winter months. On average, NFPA research shows that heating equipment is involved in roughly 70,000 reported U.S. home structure fires per year, with associated loss of roughly 600 civilian deaths, almost 1,700 civilian injuries and more than $800 million in direct property damage.

“While these numbers are frightening, nearly all of these fires are preventable,” explained Public Educator Autumn Waite. “We can reduce the number of home heating fires in our community be taking some simple precautions and using heating equipment properly.”

NFPA and Fire District 7 recommend some simple home heating safety tips, so residents can help keep our community safe and warm this winter.

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. Interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home so that when one sounds, they all sound. Test smoke alarms at least once a month.
• Be sure your home has both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms or combination alarms that include both technologies.
• Practice your home fire escape plan.
• Have your chimney inspected each year and cleaned if necessary.
• Use a sturdy fireplace screen.
• Allow ashes to cool before disposing. Dispose of ashes in a metal container.
• Space heaters need space. Keep all things that can burn, such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.
• Turn portable heaters off when you go to bed or leave the room.
• Plug power cord only into outlets with sufficient capacity and never into an extension cord.
• Inspect for cracked or broken plugs or loose connections. Replace before using.
• Install and maintain a carbon monoxide alarm in a central location outside each sleeping area.
• Never use an oven to heat your home.

 

For fuel assistance, contact the Energy Assistance Referral Line at 866-674-6327 or visit www.energynear.org.

Clearview, Wash.  –  Snohomish County Fire District 7 invites residents to kick-off Fire Prevention Week at its Annual Open House. The 24th annual Open House will take place from noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 3 at Fire District 7 Headquarters (8010 180th St. SE, Snohomish). This free event will include auto extrication demonstrations, puppet shows, tours of the fire safety trailer, fire engine tours and much more! Visitors will also get a chance to meet Topper, the Snohomish County Arson Dog.

Each year, The National Fire Protection Association identifies a theme to support Fire Prevention Week activities. The theme for 2010 is “Smoke Alarms: A sound you can live with.” This year’s campaign is designed to educate people about the importance of smoke alarms and encourages everyone to take the steps necessary to update and maintain their home smoke alarm protection.

Fire District 7 offers the following tips for making sure smoke alarms are maintained and working properly:
•Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button, and make sure everyone in your home knows their sound.
•If an alarm “chirps,” warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away.
•Replace all smoke alarms, including alarms that use 10-year batteries and hard-wired alarms, when they’re 10 years old (or sooner) if they do not respond properly when tested.
•Never remove or disable a smoke alarm.

Snohomish County Fire District 7 invites residents to kick-off Fire Prevention Week at its Annual Open House. The 24th annual Open House will take place from noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 3 at Fire District 7 Headquarters (8010 180th St. SE, Snohomish). This free event will include auto extrication demonstrations, puppet shows, tours of the fire safety trailer, fire engine tours and much more! Visitors will also get a chance to meet Topper, the Snohomish County Arson Dog.

Each year, The National Fire Protection Association identifies a theme to support Fire Prevention Week activities. The theme for 2010 is “Smoke Alarms: A sound you can live with.” This year’s campaign is designed to educate people about the importance of smoke alarms and encourages everyone to take the steps necessary to update and maintain their home smoke alarm protection.

Fire District 7 offers the following tips for making sure smoke alarms are maintained and working properly:
•Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button, and make sure everyone in your home knows their sound.
•If an alarm “chirps,” warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away.
•Replace all smoke alarms, including alarms that use 10-year batteries and hard-wired alarms, when they’re 10 years old (or sooner) if they do not respond properly when tested.
•Never remove or disable a smoke alarm.

For more information on the Open House, contact the SCFD7 Public Information Officer Autumn Waite at 360-282-3956 or awaite@firedistrict7.com.

Thanks to a donation from a generous resident, Snohomish County Fire District 7 will soon have a pet oxygen mask kit available to respond to emergencies. Bob Ullman contacted Fire District 7 after learning about petmask.com, a website dedicated to providing emergency responders with the oxygen masks specially designed for dogs, cats and other small household pets. Ullman made a donation through petmask.com that will provide Fire District 7 with one set of masks.

“There has already been interest from other residents about donating kits for other Fire District 7 fire stations,” explained Public Educator Autumn Waite. “We truly appreciate the generosity and effort to help protect our community’s pets.”

The kit, which costs $70, comes with three different size masks and a bag to carry the equipment. The different size masks could work on a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs, and even birds. For now, the kit will be carried on the Battalion Chief’s vehicle, which responds to all large scale emergencies. In the future, the goal would be to have each station carry a kit.

PetMask.com was created in 2008 by a 10 year old girl. For more information, or to donate a kit for your local fire station, visit www.petmask.com.

Sponsored by the Ready Campaign, and with support from Coalition Members across the nation, National Preparedness Month (NPM) is held each September to increase public awareness about emergency preparedness. Snohomish County Fire District 7 urges citizens to update or create their emergency supply kit and family plan this September.

“Having a supply kit and plan for your family will help alleviate some of the stress when a disaster or emergency strikes,” explained Public Educator Autumn Waite. “Creating or updating a kit and a plan is often overlooked on a family’s to-do list. National Preparedness Month is a great time to remind everyone.”

This year, NPM focuses on encouraging everyone to take active steps toward getting involved and becoming prepared. Preparedness is everyone’s responsibility. Put together an emergency supply kit. Make a family emergency plan. Be prepared to help your neighbor. Work as a team to keep everyone safe.

• Create your personalized Ready list. You may not need everything in ready-made kits. Choose the essentials to fit your needs. Don’t forget to keep supplies at work and in your car.

• Store water in safe, containers. Make sure your water containers are disinfected and airtight.

• Think ahead. Don’t buy preparedness items just before a storm when they’re expensive and supplies will be in high demand. Buy items at the end of the season when you can get good deals.

• Review your insurance policy annually and make any necessary changes—renters, too! When a disaster strikes, you want to know that your coverage will get you back on your feet.

• Update contact records. Having accurate records for family, friends and neighbors will help you stay in contact and possibly help those in need.

• Trade one night out to fund your 72-hour kit. Taking a family of four to the movies can cost upwards of $80. Just one night staying in could fund your Ready kit (try watching a good disaster movie at home instead…in keeping with the preparedness theme).

Above all, start now, take small steps, and before you know it, you will be Ready!

To learn more about how you can prepare for emergencies visit ready.gov or call 1-800-BE-READY, TTY 1-800-462-7585.

Would emergency crews be able to find you if you needed help? In an emergency, every second counts, and there is no better way to ensure a quick response than to have your address clearly marked. Don’t wait for an emergency to find out that your address is not visible from the street.

Address numbers should be:

• Contrasting or reflective
• AT LEAST three inches high – plain block

Snohomish County Fire District 7 can make you a personalized reflective address sign to ensure that your address is visible from the street. Order your sign today for only $12. Horizontal or vertical signs are available.

To order your sign, Click Here, or contact Public Educator Autumn Waite at 360-282-3956 or awaite@firedistrict7.com.

Firefighters from Snohomish County Fire District 7 will be collecting donations for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) in a fundraiser sponsored by Local 2781 of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). Firefighters will be outside local grocery stores on August 7, 8, 28 and 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“We are always overwhelmed with the support we see at this event,” explained Fire District 7 Lieutenant Paul Guy, who coordinates the fundraiser for Fire District 7. “We look forward to the ‘Fill the Boot’ event every year because it gives us a chance to help support such a great cause.”

Last year, Fire District 7 crews were able to collect over $16,000 for MDA. This year, they hope to raise at least $17,000. Nationally, firefighters have been collecting donations for MDA since 1954. MDA helps children and adults who are affected by any of 40 neuromuscular diseases covered by MDA’s comprehensive medical services and research programs. For more information on MDA, visit www.mda.org or call 1-800-FIGHT-MD.

For more information on IAFF Local 2781, visit www.iafflocal2781.org.

Fire District 7 collection locations:
Clearview Albertsons, Thomas Lake Albertsons, Mill Creek Central Market and Mill Creek QFC.

When a medical emergency occurs, immediate attention and care is crucial. Would you know how to respond? Fire District 7 encourages every citizen to be prepared, you could save a life! In conjunction with the Medic 71 Memorial Fund, Fire District 7 offers the following classes on a regular basis:

Adult/Child CPR
Fire District 7 provides the American Heart Association Heartsaver Adult/Child CPR for free! Class is offered the first Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Optional Automated External Defibrillator (AED) training is offered at the end of the class.

Infant CPR
Infant CPR is offered for free every other month (even months). The class takes place on the third Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. Prerequisites: Adult/Child CPR within the last two years.

First Aid
Fire District 7 offers First Aid training every other month (odd months). The class takes place on the third Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $30 and is due one week before the class.

All classes are held at Fire District 7 Headquarters in Clearview: 8010 180th St. SE, Snohomish. Classes fill quickly, and advanced registration is required. Sign-up online at www.firedistrict7.com or call 360-668-5357 or 425-486-1217.

At 8:43 this morning, Fire District 7 responded to a report of a car in a small pond in the 600 block of 164th St. SE in Mill Creek. They found a woman inside the submerged car with water up to her chest. Two firefighters entered the water in dry suits and life vests to help assist the women to safety. She was uninjured.

“Thankfully crews were able to get the women out quickly,” explained Public Information Officer Autumn Waite. “The main concern with a person submerged in cold water for any length of time is the possibility of hypothermia, which is of course extremely dangerous.”

All firefighters participate in basic water rescue training, and Ladder 72 carries the special equipment needed to enter the water. They arrived on scene just two minutes after Engine 76 arrived from the Mill Creek Fire Station.

Overall, 15 fire personnel responded including one unit from Snohomish County Fire District 1. Mill Creek Police also responded.

On June 30, Fire District 7 will celebrate Rick Rauma as he retires after 28 years with Snohomish County Fire District 7.

“Deputy Chief Rauma has been the leading force behind our emergency medical services (EMS) program for the last 28 years,” explained Fire Chief Richard Eastman. “His years of dedication to this program have been invaluable, and we want to thank him for his years of service.”

Rauma was hired in 1982, the same year Fire District 7 became the first fire district in Snohomish County to have a paramedic program. Rauma was hired as the EMS Coordinator, and his primary responsibility was developing and evolving the paramedic program. Since then, Rauma has been the administrator of the EMS program. Before coming to Fire District 7, he had worked for Evergreen Hospital’s Medic One Program.

All are welcome to celebrate Deputy Chief Rauma at his retirement gathering:

When: June 30, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Fire District 7 Headquarters – 8010 180th St. SE, Snohomish, WA 98296

*A brief ceremony will be held at 10:30 a.m., but people are welcome to stop by anytime.

On June 12, Snohomish County Fire District 7 firefighter/EMT Travis Rask will put his lungs and leg power to the test by climbing a stair climber for 12 hours straight. His mission: raise money for the Climb for Clean Air event, which funds the American Lung Association’s efforts to fight lung disease and improve lung health for people in our region.

“I was a smoker for 10 years, and was overweight. Both my mother’s parents died from complications due to tobacco use,” Rask explained. “I quit cold turkey 5 years ago, worked my tail off in the gym, and today enjoy a happy and healthy lifestyle. I have made it my personal goal to do whatever I can to help such a great cause.”

In July, Rask will take part in the Climb for Clean Air, a four day fundraising climb to the summit of Mt. Rainier. Each step Rask takes on the stair climber and on Mt. Rainer will be in honor of the over one million kids and adults in Washington who struggle to breathe each day because of lung disease.

Rask will climb from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Greenlake (Seattle) Starbucks. You can donate in person, or by visiting Rask’s Climb for Clean Air website at www.tinyurl.com/helptravisclimb.

For more information on the American Lung Association in Washington, visit www.alaw.org. For more information contact Public Information Officer Autumn Waite at 360-282-3956 or awaite@firedistrict7.com.

Clearview, Wash.  – Snohomish County Fire District 7 has been awarded a $5,780 federal grant in order to provide smoke alarms to citizens in need. The grant, which comes under the Department of Homeland Security's Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, will allow Fire District 7 to purchase approximately 250 smoke alarms to be installed within the district

“While we can’t prevent every fire, we know that smoke alarms can provide the needed warning to help everyone get out safely,” explained Public Educator Autumn Waite. “It’s alarming what you see when you get out in the community and visit homes; it’s shocking how many homes do not have smoke alarms at all. Even when smoke alarms are present, they aren’t always properly maintained. Many people see a smoke alarm on their ceiling and think it’s protecting their families, but they require diligent maintenance.”

Fire District 7 urges citizens to follow these guidelines for smoke alarms in the home:

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement. Interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.

• Test alarms at least monthly by pushing the test button.
• Smoke rises; install smoke alarms following manufacturer's instructions high on a wall or on a ceiling. Save manufacturer's instructions for testing and maintenance.
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least twice per year. If an alarm “chirps”, warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away. If you have a 10 year lithium smoke alarm, it is not necessary to change the battery; but make sure it hasn’t exceeded its ten year life span.
• Replace all smoke alarms, including alarms that use 10-year batteries and hard-wired alarms, when they are 10 years old or sooner if they do not respond properly.
• Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan. Visit www.firedistrict7.com or call 360-282-9356 for more information on creating your plan.

In addition to the smoke alarms, “Play Safe! Be Safe!” kits will be purchased to distribute to local daycares and preschools. The “Play Safe! Be Safe!” kit is an aid to help daycares and preschools teach young children about fire safety. After a class completes the curriculum, Fire District 7 firefighter/EMTs often visit the class to follow up with additional fire and life safety information. 

This is the tenth Assistance to Firefighters Grant awarded to Fire District 7 by the Department of Homeland Security in the last eight years, totaling approximately $2.7 million.  Previous grants were used to fund personnel, purchase fire apparatus, replace firefighter personal protective equipment, and replace firefighter breathing apparatus. Prior to receiving this grant, Fire District 7 maintained the Smoke Alarm Program with support from the Clearview Community Business Association, Farmers New World Life Insurance Co., the Medic 71 Memorial Fund, and the Snohomish County Fire Prevention Association.

For more information on Fire District 7’s Smoke Alarm Program, and information on preventing and protecting your home and family from fire, please contact Public Educator Autumn Waite at 360-282-3956 or awaite@firedistrict7.com.

Clearview, Wash.  –  Throughout the year, Snohomish County Fire District 7 firefighters will be rewarding children who are properly wearing helmets while participating in any non-motorized wheeled activity, such as biking, scootering, in-line skating or skateboarding.

Fire District 7 has partnered with Safe Kids and McDonald’s in this campaign to encourage safe riding and helmet use. Firefighters will issue a “Safe Rider Citation” to each child they spot riding safely and wearing a helmet. The citation card can be redeemed for one reduced-fat vanilla ice cream cone at participating McDonald’s restaurants.

Firefighters will always be in marked fire department vehicles and uniforms when handing out the Safe Rider Citations.

Low-cost bicycle and multi-sport helmets are available at all Fire District 7 fire stations. Bicycle riders with helmets have an 85 percent reduction in their risk of head injury and an 88 percent reduction in their risk of brain injury.

Always remember:

• Wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet.
• Adjust your bicycle to fit properly and check your equipment.
• See and be seen.
• Watch for and avoid road hazards.
• Avoid riding at night.

Clearview, Wash.  –  Snohomish County Fire District 7 is seeking committee members to advocate approval and to advocate rejection of the following proposition, scheduled for the August 17, 2010 election:

“The Board of Commissioners of Snohomish County Fire District No. 7 adopted Resolution No. 2010-04 concerning a proposition to authorize additional and permanent regular property tax levies.  This proposition would authorize the District to set and maintain an additional, regular and permanent property tax levy of $.50 or less per $1000.00 of assessed valuation for collection in 2011 and thereafter pursuant to RCW 84.52.069, which is an additional/higher rate than that previously levied and collected in 2010, subject to any otherwise applicable statutory dollar rate limitations.”

Interested individuals should submit letters of interest that include their name, telephone number, and fax number (if available) to Snohomish County Fire District 7, EMS Levy Committee, 8010 180th St. SE, Snohomish, WA 98296, no later than May 18, 2010. Individuals must also indicate their support or opposition of the proposition and explain why they are interested in serving as a committee member. Letters of interest may also be submitted by fax to 360-668-6234.

No more than three persons may be appointed to each committee by the Board of Commissioners. Each committee will be responsible for writing statements related to the EMS Levy that will appear in the local voter’s pamphlet (maximum of 250 words). The Commissioners anticipate appointing members during the May 27, 2010 Board meeting. Statements for the voter’s pamphlet are due to the Snohomish County Auditor by June 8, 2010.

Clearview, Wash.  –  The Snohomish County Fire Marshal’s Office determined a house fire in the 6100 block of 228th St. SE (unincorporated Snohomish County) started from combustibles left near a space heater. One person was home at the time, and he was able to escape with several pets after noticing smoke. One dog, one cat and two birds were lost in the fire.

The initial report came in at 5:47 p.m., and indicated the house was fully involved. As Snohomish County Fire District 7 was responding, crews could see a column of dark smoke. Fire conditions made it unsafe for crews to enter the home, so they had to fight the fire from outside.

The home is a complete loss and is estimated at $230,000. The homeowners are receiving assistance from the Snohomish County Red Cross.

Overall, 24 fire personnel responded including one unit from Snohomish County Fire District 26, one from Woodinville Fire, and King County Medic 47.

Fire District 7 urges citizens to remember these heating safety tips:

Keep all things that can burn, such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.

Turn portable heaters off when you go to bed or leave the room.

Plug power cords only into outlets with sufficient capacity and never into an extension cord.

Inspect for cracked, frayed or broken plugs or loose connections. Replace before using.

Clearview, Wash.  –  At 10:31 a.m., Snohomish County Fire District 7 responded to a report of a kitchen fire in the 19900 block of the Bothell Everett Highway at Thrasher’s Mill Apartments. Upon arrival, crews quickly extinguished the stove top fire. They were successful in keeping the fire from spreading beyond the kitchen.

A man, his young son, and their dog were able to escape from the apartment without injury. Two bystanders attempted to put out the fire with dry chemical fire extinguishers before Fire District 7 arrived on scene.

The damage is estimated at $50,000, and is contained to the kitchen. The occupants of the damaged unit will not be able to stay in the apartment. No other apartment units were affected.

Overall, 20 fire personnel responded including one unit from Bothell Fire and EMS and one from Snohomish County Fire District 1. The Snohomish County Fire Marshal’s Office also responded.

Fire District 7 urges citizens to remember these kitchen safety tips:

Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.

If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.

Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop.

Clearview, Wash.  –  In an effort to prepare for all types of rescue situations, Snohomish County Fire District 7 firefighters are participating in trench rescue operations training.  During this two hour training, crews participate in a hands-on exercise where they practice rescuing a victim from a trench.

“Although Fire District 7 has personnel on a specialized technical rescue team, it’s important that all firefighters know how to handle a trench rescue emergency,” explained Steve Tickle, Fire District 7 firefighter/EMT, and instructor for the trench rescue training. “It’s a great opportunity to experience a real life situation.”

While firefighters participate in technical rescue training each year, the hands-on trench rescue operations training takes place every three years.

Snohomish County allowed Fire District 7 to use their Cathcart Solid Waste Facility for this training. The staff at the facility also prepared the trench for Fire District 7, with equipment they have on-site. The ability to utilize the County’s property and equipment saved Fire District 7 the expense of securing a location and equipment.

Clearview, Wash.  –  Starting April 1, firefighter emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics with Snohomish County Fire District 7 moved to a new paperless system to enhance emergency medical care and services. By collecting patient information on specialized computers, crews can now obtain patient information more quickly, and efficiently track valuable data.

In 2009, Fire District 7 responded to over 5,000 calls, and 77 percent of those calls were for medical problems, ranging from cardiac issues to injuries sustained in car crashes.

“Using electronic patient care reports will be a benefit to our community and our Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program,” explained Captain Scott Dorsey, who has coordinated this project for Fire District 7. “Entering patient information by hand for EMS calls was very time consuming. By using specialized computers, the time needed to collect data will be reduced, allowing for increased interaction with patients.”

The new software interfaces with dispatch software, cardiac monitors, and other crucial EMS systems, allowing the information to easily be transferred to the patient care report. The increased efficiency of information flow will allow crews to be back in Fire District 7’s area and in service much more quickly.

Tracking the information electronically will also allow for improved data collection. In the past, there wasn’t a straightforward way to collect data. To view trends or issues, the information would have to be gathered by shuffling through hundreds of paper medical reports. Having the electronic data will allow Fire District 7 to efficiently track trends and issues within the service area.

In addition to collecting data for Fire District 7, the new software reports directly to the National Emergency Medical Services Information System and the Washington Emergency Medical Services Information System. These two organizations collect and analyze data to track trends including product safety and common injuries.

The electronic patient care reports are a part of a county-wide program that will be required nationwide in 2012. Having a centralized system will allow the county to enhance the delivery of pre-hospital medical care.

The new hardware cost $42,000, and included 8 specialized computers and the associated hardware. The hardware is covered under a comprehensive warranty.

The software fee is charged per incident, costing $1.25 per report. The web based software is a secure data network and is compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). In addition, reports can only be viewed by the original author or EMS managers.

On March 7,  20 firefighters from Snohomish County Fire District 7 will race up 69 floors of the Columbia Center in downtown Seattle to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.  The annual Scott Firefighter Stair Climb features firefighters from all over the world as they climb 1,311 steps in full bunker gear, weighing approximately 50 pounds. This year, Fire District 7 firefighters will be climbing in honor of Colton Matter.
 
“This event is something I look forward to every year,” said Firefighter Bill Ekse, who is participating in the event for his 12th year.  “This year is especially meaningful because we are climbing in honor of Colton, a young boy in our community with leukemia.”

Nine year old Colton was diagnosed with leukemia on September 11, 2009. He was involved in a scooter accident that eventually led doctors to discover he had leukemia. It was determined that it was a high risk case and the ultimate cure would require a bone marrow transplant. In early January, Colton received his transplant. He continues to fight bravely and is doing well. The family’s medical bills have quickly piled up since last September. Firefighters will be raising money for Colton’s family as well as for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

In addition to the firefighter climb, the “Big Climb” takes place on March 21 and is open to the general public. Anyone can participate in the Big Climb in honor of Colton by joining the team “Colton’s Army” (join at http://www.llswa.org/site/TR/Events/BigClimb/121767577?pg=team&fr_id=1110&team_id=24060). The Big Climb is the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s largest fundraiser, which drew in over 6,000 participants in 2009.

Donations for the Matter Family can be made at any Key Bank c/o the “Colton J Matter Fund”. Donations for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society can be made online at http://www.llswa.org/site/TR/Events/General?team_id=21430&pg=team&fr_id=1090.

Fire District 7 firefighters that plan to participate in the climb include: Matt Abers, Matt Ball, Cary Cronin, Kirk Dunham, Bill Ekse, Ryan Englund, Jesse Freer, Kevin Gleason, Jeremy Karapostoles, Matthew Nuttbrock, Cory Odgers, Joe Pereira, Rohan Peterson, Travis, Rask, Vince Read, John Rouse, Chad Squire, Ronda Steinbach, Matt Suhayda, and Dave Swearingen.

Eight of Snohomish County Fire District 7’s employees have spent countless hours over the last year and a half forming an Honor Guard to represent Fire District 7 at memorials, ceremonies and events throughout the northwest. The planning started in 2008, and the eight founding members have spent their own time learning and practicing the techniques needed to become a professional Honor Guard. Two members are former Marines who have been instrumental in the training.

“Forming an Honor Guard was something that had just been an idea in the back of people’s minds for quite some time,” explained Captain Evan Adolf. “It has finally come together and we are extremely proud of our team.”

Fire District 7’s Honor Guard was created to continue a longstanding fire service tradition to honor fallen brothers and sisters at their funerals and memorials. However, the Honor Guard also participates in parades, dedications, graduation ceremonies and other celebrations and events.

In 2009, the Honor Guard participated in its first events including the Cascade and Jackson High School Homecoming Football Games. They hope to increase their participation at community events in 2010.

The Honor Guard is a completely volunteer organization with members practicing and presenting at events on their own time. Honor Guard members include Evan Adolf, Dennis Egan, Gary Fatkin, Bill Gunterman, Ronda Steinbach, Matt Suhayda, Jeff Thompson and Steve Tickle.

If you are interested in having the Honor Guard at a community event, please contact Captain Evan Adolf at 360-282-3960 or eadolf@firedistrict7.com.

Every year, millions of people suffer burn injuries throughout the country. National Burn Awareness week aims to spread the message about this serious, but preventable problem. The focus for Burn Awareness Week 2010 includes gasoline and scald burn injuries. Reckless use and improper storage of gasoline and injuries resulting from scald burns caused by hot liquids, steam or foods, lead to thousands of young children being burned every year.

Prevent Gasoline Injuries

• DO remember that gasoline vapors can be ignited by a spark, flame or other source of heat that is located many feet away.
• DON’T use gasoline anywhere near a barbecue grill.
• DON’T use gasoline to light a barbecue grill or to start or accelerate a fire.
• DON’T use gasoline as a cleaning fluid or solvent.

Handling Gasoline

• DO remember that an engine that is still warm can ignite gasoline vapors. Only add gasoline when an engine is completely cool.
• DON’T allow children to touch gasoline or a gasoline container, even under supervision.
• DON’T handle gasoline near a flame source, such as matches, lighters and pilot lights on stoves and water heaters.
• DON’T use gasoline indoors.
• DON’T siphon gasoline by mouth, as it is harmful or fatal if swallowed.
• DON’T induce vomiting if gasoline is swallowed. Instead, seek immediate medical attention.

Prevent Scald Injuries
According to the National Safe Kids Campaign, 4,000 to 5,000 children are scalded each year, most while bathing. Continuous supervision of young children is the most important factor in preventing tap-water scald burns, but there are additional simple preventive measures that can be taken, including:

• Lower the temperature settings on water heaters to 120° F (49° C) or less.
• Install anti-scald devices on water faucets and showerheads.
•  When filling the bathtub, turn on cold water first. Mix in warmer water carefully.
• Check the water temperature by rapidly moving your hand through the water. If the water feels hot to an adult, it is too hot for a child.
• Use knob covers on faucets.

Scalds also occur in the kitchen and dining room:

• Use oven mitts or hot pads when cooking.
• Turn pot handles inward.
• Thoroughly stir all heated food.
• Never heat baby bottles in a microwave.
•  Do not use deep fryers around children.

Quick Facts About Gasoline and Scald Burn Injuries

• Kids ages 13 and older are in the highest at-risk group for gasoline and other flammable substance burns.
• According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission, in one year approximately 1,270 children under age 5 were treated in emergency rooms for injuries resulting from the misuse of gasoline and unsecured gasoline cans.
• Children ages 10-14 are almost four times more likely to get in trouble with gasoline.
• Every day, more than 300 young children with scald burns are taken to emergency rooms.
• The mortality rates from scald burn injuries are highest for children under the age of 4.
• Most scald injuries in children occur while bathing.

Facts and tips courtesy of www.burnawareness.org.

At 3:41 a.m., Snohomish County Fire District 7 was dispatched to a roof fire in the 23300 block of 49th Ave SE just north of Bothell (unincorporated Snohomish County). Crews arrived to find flames coming from the roof of a small barn.  Crews quickly removed two sheep from the structure and knocked down the fire.
A neighbor called 911 after seeing smoke and flames. The owners were inside the home on the property and were uninjured.
The Snohomish County Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire. Estimated loss of contents and structure is $26,000.

Overall, 24 fire personnel responded including units from Bothell Fire and EMS.