As the rain-soaked days of winter give way to the fresh blooms and warmer temperatures of spring, Yelm residents are stepping back outside — tidying yards, firing up grills, and planning outdoor adventures. But with the change in season comes a renewed need to focus on fire safety around homes and neighborhoods.

At the heart of Yelm’s strong community spirit is the shared responsibility to protect the people, properties, and wild spaces that make our area special. Here are a few important reminders to help you and your neighbors stay safe this spring.

Yard Clean-Up: More Than Just Curb Appeal

Spring is the perfect time to clear away debris left behind by winter storms. Dry leaves, dead branches, and tall grass are more than just unsightly — they’re potential fuel for fires.

Yelm Fire Safety Tip:

• Remove dry vegetation from around your home, especially within 30 feet of any structure.
• Dispose of yard waste properly and avoid illegal backyard burning.
• Trim tree branches at least 10 feet away from chimneys and roofs.

Outdoor Burning Rules in Yelm

Before you light that pile of brush or debris, check whether a burn ban is in effect. Even in early spring, dry and windy conditions can quickly cause fires to spread.

Yelm Fire Safety Tip:

• Always check with Thurston County Fire Marshal or the Yelm Fire District for current outdoor burning regulations.
• Keep water, a shovel, and a cell phone nearby whenever you burn.
• Never leave a fire unattended — even a small one can grow out of control in seconds.

BBQ and Campfire Safety

As the days get longer, backyard barbecues and camping trips start to fill the calendar. While these are great ways to enjoy the season, they also require smart fire practices.

Yelm Fire Safety Tip:

• Place grills and fire pits away from structures, fences, and overhanging branches.
• Use only approved fire-starting materials — no gasoline or lighter fluid shortcuts.
• Fully extinguish coals and campfires before heading indoors or leaving the site.

Watch for Wildfire Risk

Spring can sometimes be deceptively dry in Yelm, especially during periods of sunny weather preceding the official arrival of summer. Stay aware of fire risk levels in Thurston County, especially if you live near wildlands.

Yelm Fire Safety Tip:

• Sign up for local emergency alerts via Thurston County Emergency Management.
• Prepare a defensible space around your home.
• Discuss evacuation plans with family members before the fire season peaks.

Be a Good Neighbor

Fire safety is truly a community effort. Whether it’s lending a hand with a neighbor’s yard clean-up, reporting suspicious smoke, or volunteering for a local safety program, small actions make a big difference in protecting Yelm.

Stay Informed

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Let’s work together to keep Yelm safe, green, and fire-free this spring!

Spring is the perfect time to clean up and declutter your home and prepare for warmer weather. Keeping fire safety in mind during your spring cleaning efforts is essential.

1. Safely Store Flammable Liquids
Avoid piling grass clippings, dried leaves, or other flammable materials near your home or garage as you work in your yard. Store gasoline and other flammable liquids in proper and original containers, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Incorporating these fire safety measures into your spring cleaning routine can help protect your home and loved ones from potential fire hazards.

2. Maintain Electrical Safety
Inspect all electrical cords for signs of wear, fraying, or damage. Replace any faulty cords immediately, and avoid overloading outlets with multiple plugs. If using extension cords, make sure they are rated for their intended use to prevent potential fire hazards.

3. Check Smoke Alarms
Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors throughout the home. Replace batteries if needed and clean dust that may interfere with their function.

4. Dispose of Flammable Clutter
Spring cleaning often involves clearing out old newspapers, magazines, cardboard boxes, and other clutter that can fuel a fire. Dispose of these materials correctly and store essential documents in fireproof containers to minimize risks.

5. Be Careful with Cleaning Supplies
Many household cleaning products contain flammable chemicals. Store cleaning products away from heat sources and ensure proper ventilation while using them. Never mix cleaning chemicals, as this can create hazardous fumes that may lead to injury and dangerous situations.

6. Clean Dryer Vents and Filters
The build-up of lint in dryer vents and filters is a leading cause of home fires. Regularly clean out lint traps after each use and schedule a deep cleaning of your dryer vent system to prevent overheating and fire risks.

This past weekend, members of SE Thurston Fire Authority put their strength and endurance to the test by participating in the Columbia Tower Stair Climb, an annual event dedicated to raising funds and awareness for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). Our firefighters tackled an incredible challenge—ascending 69 floors and 1,356 grueling steps—all while wearing full turnout gear and SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus).

The climb is more than just a test of physical endurance; it’s a powerful tribute to those battling blood cancers. Our firefighters honored patients, survivors, and those we’ve lost with every step, demonstrating unwavering commitment to the cause. This event brings together first responders from across the nation, all united by a shared mission: to support life-saving research and provide hope for those affected by leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood disorders.

A huge shoutout to Jeff Brown and Sam Banner for taking on this demanding challenge! Their dedication, perseverance, and team spirit exemplify the heart of SE Thurston Fire Authority. Thank you to everyone who supported our team and contributed to this important cause. Together, we’re making a difference—one step at a time!

Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among adults 65 and older. Fire departments can play an important role in reducing falls among this age group by promoting fall prevention in community safety outreach activities.

Did you know:
Each year, 1 in 4 older adults aged 65 and older experiences a fall, and people who fall once are 2 times more likely to fall again.

• Remove boxes, newspapers, electrical cords and phone cords from walkways and stairs. Move coffee tables and magazine racks and plant stands from walkways.
• Use nonslip mats in your bathtub or shower; consider using a bath seat. Install grab bars in your shower and tub.
• To prevent falls, exercise to stay strong and have your vision checked.
• Remove or tape down loose rugs.
• Place night lights between your bedroom and the bathroom.
• Turn on lights before using the stairs.
• Make sure you have handrails on both sides of stairways.

House fires can be devastating, causing loss of property, injuries, and even fatalities. Understanding the most common causes of house fires and how to prevent them can help keep your home and family safe. Here are some of the leading causes and prevention tips.

1. Cooking Accidents

Unattended cooking is one of the top causes of house fires. Grease fires, overheating appliances, and flammable materials near heat sources contribute to these fires. Prevention:

• Never leave the kitchen while cooking, especially when frying or grilling.
• Keep flammable materials like towels and paper towels away from the stove.
• Have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and know how to use it.

2. Electrical Fires

Faulty wiring, overloaded outlets, and damaged appliances can cause electrical fires. Prevention:

• Have an electrician inspect your home’s wiring if you experience frequent circuit breaker trips.
• Avoid overloading outlets and power strips.
• Replace frayed or damaged electrical cords immediately.

3. Heating Equipment

Space heaters, fireplaces, and furnaces can ignite fires if not used properly. Prevention:

• Keep space heaters at least three feet away from flammable objects.
• Clean and inspect chimneys and furnaces regularly.
• Never leave heating devices unattended.

4. Smoking Indoors

Cigarettes, cigars, and other smoking materials can ignite fires if improperly disposed of. Prevention:

• Smoke outside and properly dispose of cigarette butts in non-combustible containers.
• Never smoke in bed or when feeling drowsy.

5. Candles

Candles left unattended or placed near flammable objects can cause fires. Prevention:

• Never leave candles burning unattended.
• Use flameless LED candles as a safer alternative.
• Keep candles away from curtains, furniture, and bedding.

6. Dryer Lint Build-up

Lint accumulation in dryer vents can ignite and cause fires. Prevention:

• Clean the lint trap after every use.
• Regularly check and clean dryer vents and ducts.
• Never run the dryer while sleeping or when away from home.

7. Flammable Liquids

Gasoline, paint thinners, and other flammable liquids can ignite from heat or sparks. Prevention:

• Store flammable liquids in properly sealed containers away from heat sources.
• Use them in well-ventilated areas and follow safety instructions.

8. Children Playing with Fire

Kids playing with matches, lighters, or candles can unintentionally start fires. Prevention:

• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.
• Educate children on fire safety and the dangers of playing with fire.
• Supervise young children closely, especially around fire hazards.

Final Thoughts

Preventing house fires starts with awareness and proactive measures. Regular inspections, safe practices, and proper fire safety equipment can significantly reduce the risk of fires in your home. Stay prepared and prioritize fire safety to protect your loved ones and property.

If you have questions about fire safety or need assistance, contact your local fire department for guidance and resources.

As the colder days are upon us and we seek comfort and warmth, it is important to remember fire safety should be a top priority when using fireplaces and fire pits. While these items provide a cozy atmosphere, they also come with potential hazards if not used properly.

Fireplace Safety:

Whether you have a traditional wood-burning fireplace, a gas fireplace, or an electric model, safety is key.

1. Regular Chimney Inspections & Cleaning
   • If you have a wood-burning fireplace, Clean your chimney and inspect it at least once a year. Creosote, a flammable byproduct of burning wood, can build up inside the chimney, posing a serious fire risk. A professional chimney sweep can remove this buildup and check for any blockages or damage that could prevent proper ventilation.
2. Use Dry, Seasoned Wood
   • When burning wood, always use dry, seasoned wood. Wet or green wood creates more smoke and builds up dangerous creosote in the chimney. Avoid burning Christmas trees, treated wood, or any materials not intended for burning.
3. Fireplace Screens & Doors
   • Always use a fireplace screen or doors to prevent sparks or embers from escaping. This is especially important when using a wood-burning fireplace, as flying embers can start fires on nearby carpets, furniture, or even outside if they land on dry leaves or brush.
4. Never Leave the Fire Unattended
   • Always ensure your fire is completely out before leaving the room or going to bed. If you need to leave, extinguish the fire or close the damper to limit the airflow.
5. Keep Flammable Objects Away
   • Keep furniture, drapes, blankets, and other flammable materials at least three feet from the fireplace. A stray ember could quickly ignite a fabric or paper item if it’s too close.

Fire Pit Safety:

Outdoor fire pits are great for entertaining or creating a cozy ambiance in your backyard, but they also come with safety considerations.

1. Use the Right Location
   • Always place your fire pit on a flat, non-combustible surface like gravel or stone. Never set it on grass, wooden decks, or near overhanging branches. Make sure it’s a safe distance—at least 10 feet—from buildings, fences, and anything else that could catch fire, including shrubs or trees.
2. Supervise the Fire at All Times
   • Never leave the fire pit unattended, especially if there are children or pets around. Ensure the fire is fully extinguished before leaving the area or going to sleep.
3. Avoid Burning Hazardous Materials
   • Only burn materials that are safe and meant for use in a fire pit, such as seasoned wood or fire pit logs. Do not burn leaves, paper, trash, or anything treated with chemicals, as this can create toxic smoke and pose health risks.
4. Use a Spark Guard or Screen
   • If your fire pit doesn’t have a built-in cover, use a spark guard or mesh screen to prevent sparks and embers from escaping. This helps minimize the risk of a fire spreading to nearby plants, fences, or even your home.
5. Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby
   • Always have a fire extinguisher or a bucket of water or sand close by when using a fire pit. If the fire starts to get out of control, you’ll have a means of putting it out quickly.

Space Heater Safety:

Space heaters are an efficient way to warm up a room, but they must be used with care to prevent overheating or fires.

Following these safety tips, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your fireplace, fire pit, or space heater without putting yourself or your loved ones at risk. As the temperature drops and we spend more time indoors and around outdoor fires, remember that fire safety is a shared responsibility that starts with awareness and careful practices.

Prevent burns and scalds in the kitchen:

• Place objects so that they cannot be pulled down or knocked over.
• Turn pot handles away from the stove’s edge.
• Use dry oven mitts or potholders. Hot cookware can heat moisture in a potholder or hot pad, resulting in a scald burn.
• Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.
• Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove.

General first aid for burns and scalds:

• Treat a burn right away by putting it in cool water. Cool the burn for three to five minutes.
• Cover burn with a clean, dry cloth. Do not apply creams, ointments, sprays or other home remedies.
• Remove all clothing, diapers, jewelry and metal from the burned area. These can hide underlying burns and retain heat, which can increase skin damage.

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To ensure space heater fire safety, always keep them at least three feet away from flammable materials like curtains, furniture, and bedding, never leave them unattended while sleeping or leaving a room, plug them directly into a wall outlet without extension cords, and regularly inspect cords and plugs for damage; if any damage is found, replace the heater immediately. 

Key points to remember:

Placement:

• Place the space heater on a stable, flat surface at least three feet away from anything that can burn. 

Cord safety:

• Never run the cord under rugs or use an extension cord; check for frayed or damaged cords and plugs before use. 

Unattended operation:

• Always turn off the space heater when leaving a room or going to bed. 

Tip-over safety:

• Look for space heaters with an automatic shut-off feature in case of tip-over. 

Regular inspection:

• Check your space heater regularly for signs of damage, including cracked or broken casing, loose connections, and hot cords. 

Do not:

• Use a space heater near water
• Place a space heater in high-traffic areas or where children and pets can easily reach it
• Use a space heater with a damaged cord or plug
• Operate a space heater while wet 

Consider purchasing a space heater with:

• A built-in thermostat to regulate temperature 
• A safety feature that automatically shuts off the heater if it overheats 
• A tip-over switch that automatically turns off the heater if it is knocked over

Teaching children about fire safety is one of the most important lessons you can provide to ensure their well-being. Fires can spread quickly and unpredictably, so empowering kids with knowledge and preparedness can make all the difference in an emergency. Here’s how you can educate your children about the dangers of fire and equip them with essential skills to stay safe.

Understanding the Dangers of Fire

Children are naturally curious about fire, which makes it crucial to explain its risks in a way they can understand.

• Talk about fire’s destructive power: While fire can be useful (e.g., cooking or warmth), it can also hurt people, destroy homes, and spread quickly if not controlled.
• Set clear rules: Teach children to never play with matches, lighters, or candles. Emphasize that these items are tools for adults only.
• Use visuals and stories: Books and videos designed for kids can effectively illustrate fire safety concepts in an engaging manner.

What to Do in a Fire Emergency

Focusing on practical actions can help kids stay calm and act decisively if a fire occurs.

1. Stop, Drop, and Roll:
   • Teach children this simple yet critical technique to use if their clothing catches fire:
     • Stop: Stay still to prevent the fire from spreading.
     • Drop: Get to the ground quickly.
     • Roll: Cover the face with your hands and roll back and forth until the flames are out.
   • Practice this skill regularly so it becomes second nature.
2. Stay Low to Avoid Smoke:
   • Explain that smoke rises, so the safest air is closer to the floor.
   • Teach them to crawl on hands and knees if they encounter smoke while escaping.
   • Practice this during fire drills at home to build confidence.
3. Know the Escape Plan:
   • Involve your children in creating a fire escape plan for your home.
   • Show them how to locate two exits from each room and emphasize the importance of not re-entering a burning building.
   • Practice escaping as a family to ensure everyone knows their role.

Making Fire Safety Fun and Memorable

• Use games and activities: Turn fire safety into a learning game with coloring books, puzzles, and interactive apps focused on fire prevention.
• Visit your local fire station: Many fire departments offer tours and educational programs for kids to meet firefighters and learn about fire safety equipment.
• Reward learning milestones: Celebrate when children remember key fire safety rules or demonstrate their skills during a drill.

Reinforce Safety Around the Home

• Install smoke alarms: Let kids hear the sound of the alarm so they know what it means.
• Teach 911 basics: Ensure children know how to call for help and provide their address in an emergency.
• Model safe behavior: Set a good example by practicing safe cooking, properly storing flammable materials, and extinguishing candles or fires responsibly.

Why Fire Safety Education Matters

Fires can happen unexpectedly, but by teaching your children the dangers of fire and how to respond, you’re giving them the tools to protect themselves. These lessons could save lives and help your kids feel more confident in emergency situations.

For additional resources or assistance in teaching children fire safety, contact your local fire department or visit trusted online safety organizations. Together, we can ensure that our children grow up safe, informed, and ready to respond in case of fire emergencies.