Griffin Health to host fire safety events for Valley seniors in September

DERBY - Griffin Health and the Agency on Aging of South-Central Connecticut are hosting a series of fire safety events for seniors throughout the Valley in September.

The events will feature a discussion of home fire prevention and safety tips by the area fire department representatives, and the American Red Cross will be scheduling appointments for their Home Fire Preparedness Campaign which offers free smoke alarms with installation. 

Griffin Health caregivers will also be offering free blood pressure screening and consultations. 

The events are scheduled for Sept. 9 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at the Seymour Senior Center, Sept. 12 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at the Ansonia Senior Center, Sept. 25 from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the Shelton Senior Center, and Sept. 26 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at Derby Neck Library.

These offerings are part of the AgeWell program which is co-sponsored by Griffin Health and the Agency on Aging of South-Central Connecticut to increase access to care and prevent disease among the Valley senior community through a series of health screenings and healthy living education sessions each month. 

Periodically, this program provides nutritiously balanced and delicious foods for attendees.

Registration is required to attend the AgeWell fire safety events. To sign up, contact the location (Ansonia Senior Center: 203-736-5933; Seymour Senior Center: 203-888-0406 ext. 1; Shelton Senior Center: 203-924-9324; and Derby Neck Library: 203-734-1492).

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Griffin Hospital, Safe Kids, White Hills Fire Company in Shelton to mark fire drill day

SHELTON - Home fires have proven to be one of the largest disaster threats facing American families today, resulting more than eight in 10 fire-related deaths.

To raise awareness about this issue and encourage families to be prepared, Griffin Hospital, Safe Kids Greater Naugatuck Valley and White Hills Volunteer Fire Co. # 5 are teaming up to host “Make Safe Happen,” a free fire prevention program from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 15 at White Hills Fire Co. #5, 2 School St.

The event joins similar programs across the country sponsored by Safe Kids Worldwide and Nationwide’s Make Safe Happen program to mark Home Fire Drill Day and National Fire Prevention Week (October 9-15).

“Creating a fire escape plan with your family and practicing it is a smart thing for every family to do,” said Cathi Kellett, Safe Kids Greater Naugatuck Valley Coalition Coordinator.

“In the event of an emergency, a child could feel overwhelmed or worried. Practicing on Home Fire Drill Day can help teach your children how to be prepared in case of a home fire.”

The Make Safe Happen program will help families in knowing how to: 

• Pick a family safety spot outside that’s near the home and a safe distance away.
• Test smoke alarms with children so they know what the beep sounds like. 
• Assign an adult to help children under 6.
• Use a timer to ensure everyone can get out to the safety spot in two minutes or less (this is how much time a family has to safely exit the house in the event of a fire).
• Prepare for the practice by drawing out a plan based on the exits around the home.

“We are launching Home Fire Drill Day with our expert partners to encourage families across the country to take a pledge that they will practice home fire drills on October 15. We want every family member to know exactly what to do in the event of a home fire,” says Mike Boyd, of Nationwide. 

“We all practice fire drills at work and children do the same at school – we should do them at home as well, where fires are happening every day.”

For more information about Home Fire Drill Day, visit homefiredrillday.com. 

About Safe Kids Greater Naugatuck Valley Coalition

Safe Kids Greater Naugatuck Valley (GNV) works to prevent unintentional childhood injury, the number one cause of death for children in the United States. Safe Kids GNV is a member of Safe Kids Worldwide, a global network of organizations dedicated to preventing unintentional injury. Safe Kids GNV was founded in 2004 and is led by Griffin Hospital. 

For more information, visit safekids.org or griffinhealth.org/safekids.

About Make Safe Happen®

Make Safe Happen is a program dedicated to reducing accidental injury – the leading cause of death among children. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly nine million children are treated at emergency rooms across the country and more than 9,000 children die each year due to accidental injuries. Protecting child safety and wellbeing for more than 60 years, Nationwide launched Make Safe Happen in 2015 to empower parents, caregivers and children with tools and resources to make homes safer. Together with its Advisory Council, including Nationwide Children’s Hospital and Safe Kids Worldwide, Make Safe Happen is committed to inspiring one million safety actions by the end of 2016 with the hope of reducing childhood accidental injury and death. To learn more and take action, visit makesafehappen.com.

About Nationwide

Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest and strongest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the U.S. and is rated A+ by both A.M. Best and Standard & Poor’s. The company provides a full range of insurance and financial services, including auto, commercial, homeowners, farm and life insurance; public and private sector retirement plans, annuities and mutual funds; banking and mortgages; excess and surplus, specialty and surety; pet, motorcycle and boat insurance. 

For more information, visit www.nationwide.com.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital. 

White Hills Fire Company in Shelton to host open house, picnic

To mark Fire Prevention Week

Shelton fire prevention chief urges residents to remove cut holiday trees

SHELTON – The City's Fire Prevention Bureau would like to remind everyone to promptly remove "fresh cut" holiday trees from homes before they become dry. 
Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief, Fire Prevention, is concerned that those who delay with tree disposal could quickly create a very serious fire hazard. 

Check out this video Pisciotta provided.

Until such time the tree is removed, it is especially important to remember to keep the stand filled with water at all times. 
The bottom line is that the longer the tree remains in the home, the greater the fire risk becomes.

Once ignited, fire involving the entire tree could quickly result in rapid fire spread throughout the home. Not only will damage be extensive, but serious injury or loss of life is possible.

A tree will tend to become dry, especially when kept indoors over time. Needles on fresh trees should be green and hard to pull from the branches, and a needle should bend, not break. Also if needles fall off, the tree has been cut too long, has probably dried out, and is a very serious fire hazard. 
Trees should not be left up for longer than two weeks and be sure to keep the tree stand filled with water at all times. 
Dried trees should not be kept in the home, garage, or placed outside against the home.

Pisciotta said it is not uncommon to see residents keeping lights and Christmas trees up past December. The reality is, continued use of seasonal lighting and dried-out Christmas trees can pose significant fire hazards in and outside the home.

To reduce the risk of holiday light fires and keep equipment in good condition for next year, follow these storage suggestions from the National Fire Protection Association: 

• To unplug electric decorations, use the gripping area provided on the plugs. Never pull the cord to unplug a device from electrical outlets. Doing so can harm the cord’s wire and insulation and even lead to an electrical shock or fire.

• As you’re putting away electrical light strings, take time to inspect each for damage. Throw out light sets if they have loose connections, broken sockets or cracked or bare wires.

• Do not place a damaged set of lights back into the storage box for next year’s use.

• Wrap each set of lights and put them in individual plastic bags, or wrap the lights around a piece of cardboard.

• Store electrical decorations in a dry place where they cannot be damaged by water or dampness. Also, keep them away from children and pets.

Finally, as in every season, have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. 
Know when and how to call “911” for help.  And remember to practice your home escape plan.

For more information, the public is encouraged to contact the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau at 924-1555 or on the web under “Public Safety” at www.cityofshelton.org     


This is a press release from Ted Pisciotta.              

Shelton fire official shares holiday safety tips

Battery-powered, flameless candles are preferable. / Contributed photo

SHELTON - The City's Fire Prevention Bureau would like to remind everyone it is important to make fire prevention a top priority when decorating and celebrating this holiday season.

Fires involving holiday trees, lights, candles and cooking pose a serious threat during this time of year. Decorating homes and businesses is a long-standing tradition around the holiday season.

Unfortunately, these same decorations may increase your chances of fire that can cause extensive damage to property, in addition to possible injury or death.

Following a few simple fire safety tips can keep electric lights, candles, and a Christmas tree from creating a tragedy. 

Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief - Fire Prevention, believes that everyone can help ensure a safe and happy holiday by considering hazards associated with holiday trees, decorative lighting, candles, and cooking:

• If you plan on a “live/cut” tree, be sure it is remains fresh and is never dry. Needles on fresh trees should be green and hard to pull from the branches, and a needle should bend, not break, if the tree has been freshly cut. Bouncing the tree trunk on the ground can identify old trees. If many needles fall off, the tree has been cut too long, has probably dried out, and is a fire hazard. Do not put the tree within three feet of a fireplace, space heater, radiator, or heat vent. The heat will dry out the tree, causing it to be more easily ignited by heat, flame, or sparks. Do not leave a tree up for longer than two weeks and be sure to keep the tree stand filled with water at all times.

• Holiday lights can be a potential ignition source. Only use lighting listed by an approved testing laboratory. Do not link more than three light strands, unless the directions indicate it is safe. Make sure to periodically check the wires – they should not be warm to the touch. Never leave a lighted Christmas tree or other decorative lighting display unattended. Inspect lights for exposed or frayed wires, loose connections, and broken sockets. Do not overload extension cords or outlets and do not run an electrical cord under a rug.

• Avoid using lit candles. If you do use them, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where children, pets, or cords from vacuum cleaners etc. cannot easily knock them over. Consider where combustible items might be placed and where candles could be knocked over and where they could be forgotten about over time. Never leave the house or go to sleep with candles burning. Of course, battery-powered, flameless “candles” are always preferred.

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking. Many fires that start small occur when food is left on the stove or the oven unattended. Always keep an oven mitt and lid nearby when you’re cooking. If a small grease fire starts in a pan, put on an oven mitt and smother the flames by carefully sliding the lid over the pan. Turn off the burner. Don’t remove the lid until it is completely cool, and never, ever try to move the pan anywhere! If there is an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed. Of course, for any fire situation call 911 immediately!

• Remember, at any place of business or at home, make sure all exits are accessible and not blocked by decorations or trees.

Finally, as in every season, have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. 

Know when and how to call “911” for help. And remember to practice your home escape plan.

For more information, the public is encouraged to contact the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau at 924-1555 or on the web under “Public Safety” at www.cityofshelton.org.

This is a press release from the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau.

Shelton fire department offers safety tips when cooking

SHELTON - The Shelton Fire Department is urging the public to keep safety in mind when preparing meals and using candles this Thanksgiving. 

Statistics form U.S. Fire Administration indicate that Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires. 
The average number of home fires on Thanksgiving Day is normally double the average number of fires in homes all other days.
Most fires that result during cooking can be avoided by paying attention and being organized. 

To prevent a fire or injury and stay safe when cooking and celebrating Thanksgiving, follow these simple rules:

• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you must leave the home for even a short period of time, turn off the stove or oven.
  
• If you are simmering, baking, boiling, or roasting food, check it regularly and remain in the home while food is cooking. Use a timer to remind you that the stove or oven is on.
  
• Stay alert. Don’t cook if you are sleepy, have been drinking alcohol or have taken medicine that makes you drowsy.
  
• Make your cooking area safe. Move things that can burn away from the stove. Keep things that burn – pot holders, oven mitts, paper or plastic - off your stovetop.
  
• Turn pot handles toward the back so they can’t be bumped.
  
• Don’t store things that can burn in an oven, microwave, or toaster oven. 

• Clean food and grease off burners, stovetops, and ovens.
  
• Wear clothing with sleeves that are short, close fitting, or tightly rolled up.
  
• Always keep an oven mitt and lid nearby when you're cooking. If a small grease fire starts
  in a pan, put on an oven mitt and smother the flames by carefully sliding the lid over the
  pan. Turn off the burner. Don't remove the lid until it is completely cool.
  
• If there is an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed to prevent flames from
  burning you and your clothing. Have the oven serviced before you use it again.
  
• Use turkey fryers outdoors, away from the home and deck. Always monitor oil
  temperature. Use caution to not overfill or spill hot oil.
  
• Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.
  Don’t forget about fire dangers posed by lit candles.
  

• Flameless “candles”, such as battery powered are always preferred for safety.
  
• Flame lit candles should be in a safe location that is kept free of combustible surroundings.
  Consider where combustible items might be placed and where candles could be knocked
  over and where they could be forgotten about over time.
  
• Never leave children alone in room with a lit a candle.

For additional information on fire safety, visit the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau Web Site under Public Safety at: www.cityofshelton.org. 

This is a press release from Ted Pisciotta, assistant chief, fire prevention. 

Shelton firefighters provide safety tips to residents

SHELTON - Location matters when it comes to your smoke alarm. 
That’s the message behind this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Hear the Beep Where You Sleep. Every Bedroom Needs a Working Smoke Alarm!”

The Shelton Fire Department, consisting of members of Echo Hose, Huntington, Pine Rock Park, and White Hills volunteer fire companies are currently involved in various fire safety activities that will continue through October. 
This includes visiting all preschools and schools where firefighters will present fire safety lessons for children aging from preschool through Grade 6. 
These programs are part of an effort to reduce the chances of residents being injured or killed by fire, in addition to preserving property.

Together with the nonprofit National Fire Protection Association, the Shelton Fire Department is working to remind residents about the importance of having working smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement.

“In a fire, seconds count,” said Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief, Fire Prevention. “Half of home fire deaths result from fires reported at night between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. when most people are asleep. Home smoke alarms can alert people to a fire before it spreads, giving everyone enough time to get out.”

According to the latest NFPA research, working smoke alarms cut the chance of dying in a fire in half. Meanwhile, three out of five fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

In conjunction with making every effort to prevent a fire from ever happening, be prepared by maintaining working smoke alarms throughout the entire home. 

Follow these tips for making sure smoke alarms are in place and working properly:

• 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. This way, when one sounds, they all do.
  
• Test alarms at least monthly by pushing the test button.
  
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or sooner if they don’t
  respond properly.
  
• Make sure everyone in the home knows the sound of the smoke alarm and
  understands what to do when they hear it.
  
• 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.

Pisciotta is encouraging businesses, organizations, and individuals throughout the city to visit the Fire Prevention Bureau web site, which may be found by clicking on “Public Safety” at www.cityofshelton.org. 


This is a press release from Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief, Fire Prevention.

Shelton fire department, Red Cross partner on safety campaign

American Red Cross volunteer Jesus Emilio Serna recently installs a smoke detector in a Fairchild Park home in Shelton. / Submitted photo

SHELTON - The Shelton Fire Department, Office of Fire Marshal, and Fire Prevention Bureau in partnership with the New Haven Area Chapter of the American Red Cross recently conducted door-to-door fire safety awareness campaign which included the installation of free smoke alarms. 

The effort focused on residents of the Fairchild and Sunnyside mobile home parks located in Shelton. 
Over 130 homes were visited by volunteer firefighters of the Shelton Fire Department consisting of Echo Hose Hook & Ladder Company No. 1, Huntington Fire Company No. 3, Pine Rock Park Volunteer Fire Company No. 4, and White Hills Voluntary Fire Company No. 5 along with volunteers from the American Red Cross. 
Fran Jones, Chief of Shelton Fire Department said, "The department is grateful for the smoke alarms provided and the time given by the committed volunteers from the ARC.”

While firefighters provided residents with fire safety brochures, volunteers from the American Red Cross installed new smoke alarms in several homes. ARC volunteers also distributed information on emergency planning. 
Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief – Fire Prevention said, “Smoke alarms save lives by providing early warning and time for occupants to quickly escape.” 
This program was conducted through a nationwide effort by the American Red Cross to assist local communities in fire prevention, awareness, and safety. 
Firefighters last responded to a mobile home fire in Sunnyside Park on June 17, 2014.

Anyone who is in need of installing a smoke alarm and may need assistance should contact the Shelton Fire Marshal’s Office at 203-924-1555, ext. 1340.

Always have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. 
Know when and how to call for help. And remember to practice your home escape plan.

For additional information on fire safety, visit the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau at: www.cityofshelton.org under “Public Safety.”


This is a press release from Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief, Fire Prevention, City of Shelton.

Shelton fire official warns of fireworks danger

SHELTON – The City of Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau wishes to remind and warn of the dangers and fireworks. This includes sparklers, some of which are legal in the State of Connecticut.

Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief - Fire Prevention, suggests that everyone seriously consider the tragic consequences that a sudden mishap involving fireworks or a hot sparkler could cause. Physical injuries could last a lifetime.

The Connecticut State Police Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit reports that a number of house fires and grass fires have been attributed to the use of fireworks. Fireworks are a danger to property, as well as to people. If a fire or explosion caused by legal or illegal fireworks causes injuries and/or damage, or poses the risk of either, the person responsible could be charged with a felony criminal offense.

All fireworks are illegal in the State of Connecticut, with the exception of sparklers and fountains. Connecticut state law defines sparklers as non-explosive, non-aerial devices that contain less than 100 grams of pyrotechnic mixture.

Fountains are defined as nonexplosive, non-aerial devices that contain less than 100 grams of pyrotechnic for each individual item. If two or more fountains are affixed to the same base, the total quantity of pyrotechnic composition of combined fountains cannot exceed 200 grams. Both sparklers and fountains may be legally used by persons aged 16 and older.

In addition to fireworks, novelty items such as party poppers, snakes, smoke devices and anything that emits a flame are also not legal for private use in Connecticut. These exploding devices are very dangerous and have caused serious injury to those using them or near them.

The City of Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau encourages everyone to consider the following to prevent fire and injury during this holiday season:

§ Treat all fireworks as suitable only for use by trained professionals. Attend public firework displays that are pre-arranged under controlled conditions.

§ Stay back at least 500 feet from professional fireworks displays

§ Avoid use of sparklers which can reach nearly 2,000oF. Children should never hold or be in close proximity to a sparkler. State law requires buyers and users to be 16 years of age or older. However, it should be understood that these devices may be dangerous to persons of any age.

§ If you find fireworks, do not touch them but instead direct authorities to them.

§ Leave any area where amateurs are using fireworks.

Finally, as in every season, have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. Know when and how to call “911” for help. And remember to practice your home escape plan.

For more information, the public is encouraged to contact the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau, 203-924-1555 or under “Public Safety” at www.cityofshelton.org.


This is a press release from Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief-Fire Prevention, Shelton.

Shelton fire official offers summer safety tips

SHELTON - Summertime presents the return of several seasonal fire hazards with activities shifting outdoors. 
Among the most common involve outdoor cooking grills. 
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, over half (57 percent) of grill fires occur in the months of May, June, July, and August. 
Most fires involve propane gas type grills, including leaks or breaks of gas containers or pipes. 

Contributed photo

However, many grill fires also result from spark, ember, or flame. Grill mishaps can result in both significant property damage and severe burn injuries that last a lifetime. 

Ted Pisciotta, assistant chief, fire prevention encourages everyone to consider the following fire safety practices:

•   Locate grills and any propane tanks/cylinders a safe distance from buildings, wooden decks and other combustibles. Never use a grill indoors or in an enclosed area. Never store propane indoors!
  
•   Keep the grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills, burners, and in collection trays below the grill.
  
•   Inspect and clean of venturi tubes and burner (check owner’s manual) of gas grills where spiders and small insects may make nests or spider webs. This could lead to a fire.
  
•   Check propane gas hose connections. Be sure all are tight from the propane cylinder, regulator, and where the hose connects to the burners. Tighten if loose.
  
•   Carefully check gas hoses and connections for leaks by applying a soap-water solution to the hose and connections. Once the propane cylinder is opened, any leak will produce bubbles around the area of the escaping gas. If there are no bubbles, your grill is safe to use. If there are bubbles, turn off the tank and check connections, then have your grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak doesn’t stop, call the fire department immediately.
  
•   Always open the lid of the grill when lighting.
  
•   As you are cooking, if you smell gas, turn off the gas tank and burners. If the leak stops immediately, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the smell continues, move away from the grill and call the fire department immediately. Do not move the grill.
  

•   For Charcoal Grills, use only charcoal starter fluids designed for grills and do not add fluid after coals have been lit.
  
•   Keep children and pets away from the grill area. Also, keep charcoal fluid, matches, and lighters of the reach of children.
  
•   Never leave any lit grill unattended.
  
•   When finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal
  container. 
• 
  Always have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. Know when and how to call for help. And remember to practice your home escape plan.
  
• 
  
• For additional information on fire safety, visit the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau website, www.cityofshelton.org under “Public Safety.” 
  
• 
  

This is a press release from Ted Pisciotta, assistant chief, fire prevention. 

Shelton fire prevention contest winners applauded

Students create posters, write essays

SHELTON – Two first place Fire Prevention Poster Contest winners, a fourth grade and a fifth grade winner, were announced during the annual Shelton Fire Prevention Contest Awards Ceremony last week at Shelton Intermediate School. 

Overall winners are: 4^th Grade - Kendyll Flamini, Long Hill School

 5^th Grade - Charlotte Zilinek, Perry Hill School

Each of their posters advanced to a state level contest. 

Assistant Chief Ted Pisciotta congratulated students and thanked parents, teachers, principals, and firefighters for their efforts.
Mayor Mark A. Lauretti spoke about the benefit of this annual contest and his gratitude for all the many individuals that support this fire safety program. 
He commented that fire safety education is important to save lives, prevent harm, protect property, and keep firefighters safe. 
All first and second place winners from the 4th and 5th grade representing each of Shelton’s public and parochial schools, then received a cash award of $75 and $50, respectively from Lauretti. The two overall city of Shelton winners were each presented a cash award of $100, a certificate, and a medal.

The annual poster contest, launched in 1984, is designed to develop fire safety awareness in youngsters and to encourage them to take the message home to their families. 
It is jointly sponsored by Connecticut FAIR Plan, representing the insurance industry in the state; the Connecticut Fire Marshals Association; Connecticut Board of Education; and the Office of State Fire Marshal. 
Contest administered by fire prevention bureau 
The local contest is administered by the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau. 
Approximately 900 posters were submitted this year from Booth Hill, Elizabeth Shelton, Long Hill, Mohegan, Perry Hill, St. Joseph, St. Lawrence, and Sunnyside schools. Each student who submitted a poster will receive a Certificate of Appreciation and a pen from the Connecticut Fire Prevention Poster Committee. Judging was held Dec. 17, with representatives from the Board of Aldermen judging the artwork. 
All first place posters will be displayed over the next year at schools, public buildings, and events. 

Lauretti also presented cash awards and certificates to winners of the Sixth Grade Essay/Public Service Announcement Contest. Classrooms, and each student author, received a cash award of $100, $75, and $50 for first, second, and third place, respectively. 
The Bureau is thankful for the volunteer essay/PSA judges from the Valley Independent Sentinel, the Connecticut Post, and The Valley Voice blog.
Since the contest began in 1996, its purpose has been to promote fire safety by having students research the topic while writing their PSA. 
The fire department/fire prevention bureau would like to use the essay to help remind adults and children how important fire prevention is to Everyone/Everyday. 
This year’s winners are:

1st Place

 Ms. Ibsen’s Class, Perry Hill School

Author:  Emily Sandin

2nd Place

Mr. Anderson’s Class, Saint Joseph School

Author:  Nicholas Couture

3rd Place

Mrs. Coffin’s Class, Perry Hill School

 Author:  Aliye Reinhardt

Students in both the poster and essay contests depicted many of the essential elements of preventing fire from ever occurring and of preparation and planning required to be ready for fire. 
Pisciotta is hopeful the messages of posters and essays will be shared with everyone in the community to help further reduce needless damage to property, injury to persons, and loss of life that can result from fire. 
In addition to spreading information about fire safety, Pisciotta also finds the contest helpful to measure the effectiveness educational programs of the fire prevention bureau.  
From reviewing the nearly 900 posters and 40 essays it becomes apparent where the bureau has made a great impact. The contest has identified areas where special focus may be needed to improve educational efforts.

For information about fire safety, the public is encouraged to contact the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau, 203-924-1555, or at www.cityofshelton.org, where all winning posters and essays may be viewed by finding the Fire Prevention Bureau under "Public Safety.” 
For direct web access go to: www.sheltonfireprevention.org.  

This post is taken from a press release from Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief, Fire Prevention.

* I'd like to congratulate all the sixth graders whose well-written essays made it to the final judging in December. Their efforts are to be commended.

Shelton fire official warns public of recall of extinguishers

SHELTON - The Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau has been notified of an important product recall that may pose a fire safety hazard to consumers.

Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief – Fire Prevention, would like residents and businesses to take a few moments to check for the fire extinguisher models listed below as announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Kidde plastic valve disposable fire extinguishers

According to the recall notice, a faulty valve component can cause the disposable fire extinguishers not to fully discharge when the lever is repeatedly pressed and released during a fire emergency, posing a risk of injury.

This recall involves 31 models of Kidde disposable fire extinguishers with Zytel® black plastic valves. The recalled extinguishers are red, white or silver and are either ABC or BC rated.

The ratings can be found to the right of the nameplate. Manufacture dates included in the recall are July 23, 2013 through Oct. 15, 2014. Extinguishers were sold at Home Depot, Menards, Walmart and other department, home and hardware stores nationwide, and online from August 2013 through November 2014 for between $18 and $65, and about $200 for model XL 5MR.

A 10-digit date code is stamped on the side of the cylinder, near the bottom. Digits five through nine represent the day and year of manufacture in DDDYY format. Date codes for recalled units manufactured in 2013 are XXXX 20413 X through XXXX 36513 X and 2014 are XXXX 00114 X through XXXX 28814 X.

A nameplate affixed to the front of the fire extinguisher has one of the following model numbers:

10BC

1A 10BC

1A 10BCW

2A10BC

5BC

5BCW

FA10G

FA110

FA5B

FC10

FC110

FC5

FH/ RESSP

FX10

FX10BC

FX10K

FX210

FX210R

FX210W

FX340GW

FX340SC

FX5II

KFH Twin

M110 Twin

M5 Twin

Mariner 10

Mariner 110

Mariner 5

Mariner 5 G

RESSP

XL 5MR


Consumers should immediately contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher.
Consumer contact: Kidde toll-free at 855-283-7991 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or online at www.kidde.com and click on Safety Notice for more information.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled product, go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2015/Kidde-Recalls-Disposable-Plastic-Fire-Extinguishers/

Pisciotta said recalls of many different types of products are issued throughout the year. Unfortunately, most people with these products in their possession never become aware of the hazard notification.

The easiest way to check if a product has ever been recalled is to log onto the CPSC website: www.cpsc.gov, or for any type of recall, including food items, log onto: www.recalls.gov. This site combines seven federal agencies with vastly different jurisdictions that report on unsafe, hazardous or defective products.

For more information on fire safety, as well as links to these sites, visit the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau website found under “public safety” at: www.cityofshelton.org. Anyone needing assistance, or without Internet access, should contact the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau, 203-924-1555.
Always have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. 

Know when and how to call 911 for help and remember to practice your home escape plan.


This is a press release from Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief, Fire Prevention.

Ansonia students win fire prevention poster contest

 John C. Mead Elementary School winners. / Photo submitted by Eileen Ehman

John G. Prendergast Elementary School winners. / Photo submitted by Eileen Ehman

ANSONIA – Fire Marshal Ralph Tingley has announced winners of the annual Fire Prevention Poster Contest for Ansonia Public Schools.

Gift cards were presented to the top three winners in Grades 4 and 5 from John C. Mead and John G. Prendergast Schools.

In addition to Tingley, Superintendent of Schools Carol Merlone, Mayor David S. Cassetti, and school principals participated in the presentation Thursday.

Two students who were first prize winners at Mead School have been selected as the grand prize winners for the city, and their posters are on display in the State Capitol in Hartford. 
They are fourth grader Willow Cappa and fifth grader Jovi Guevara. 

The other winners of the contest at Mead are: Grade 4, second prize, Nicholas Fahy; and third prize, Hali Langer; and Grade 5, second prize, Jhael Molina; and third prize, Elaina Cibulas.

At Prendergast, fourth grade winners are Julia Kaye (first prize), Nikky Tran (second prize) and Jordyn Zealor (third prize), while the fifth grade winners are Maya Frager (first prize), Allison White (second prize) and Mikenna Davis (third prize).



This is a press release from Ansonia Public Schools.


I congratulate all of the students on their achievement!

Shelton fire official warns of snowstorm hazards

SHELTON – Forecast of additional snowfall and with significant accumulations along with the potential for strong winds has prompted the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau to alert the public that prevention efforts should be maximized during this period. 

In addition to snow accumulations storms such as this could result in loss of electrical power.

Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief – Fire Prevention, encourages everyone to be highly vigilant to avoid having a fire within a home, business, or facility. This includes smoking outdoors only, paying strict attention when cooking, and keeping space heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn. Candles should not be used. 
In addition to fire prevention efforts, the following recommended actions should also be implemented to be prepared for an unexpected potential fire.

• Remove snow regularly from all entry/exit doors and pathways, of your home, business, or facility. This also includes those not regularly used as they may be needed for emergency evacuation or escape in the event of fire. If you are not capable of snow removal, consider making arrangements for someone cable to remove snow. Likewise, consider helping a neighbor or someone you know that does not have this ability.

• If a fire hydrant is near your home or business, keep it clear of snow and unobstructed for prompt access by the fire department.

• Keep snow accumulations and drifts clear of exhaust outlets of clothes driers and heating units that might be located on exterior walls.

• Avoid unnecessary travel on roadways during significant snowfall to help permit both efficient snow removal and safe response of emergency vehicles

• Throughout the year always have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. Know when and how to call for help by dialing 911, and remember to practice your home escape plan.

This is a press release from Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief - Fire Prevention in Shelton.

Shelton fire official outlines winter hazards

Make sure to keep portable heaters at least three feet away.

SHELTON – Freezing winter temperatures have prompted the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau to remind everyone to hold fire safety in high regard. 
Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief – Fire Prevention, Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau, says fires tend to increase during winter months when hazards associated with cold weather increase.
Typical hazards include the use of alternative heating methods, attempts to thaw frozen pipe, and the general increased activity indoors. 

In the U.S., heating is the second leading cause of all residential building fires following cooking. January is the peak month for such fires. Pisciotta encourages everyone to consider fire safety to help protect persons, homes, and businesses from the potential threat of fire.

Adequate heat should be maintained in all areas with use of well arranged and maintained heating equipment. Here are some helpful tips to prevent and unwanted fire in your home or business:

General Heating:

· A furnace should be inspected and serviced by a qualified professional at least once a year.

· Use temporary/portable space heaters that have been evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

· If temporary/portable space heaters are used, keep anything that can burn; such as bedding, paper, furniture, etc. at least three feet away.

· Ensure the portable space heater has a thermostat control mechanism, and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over.

· Electric portable space heaters should be plugged directly into a proper wall outlet. Do not use an extension cord.

· Turn off portable heaters when you leave a room or go to bed. (Use reminders such as notes, timer, etc. to ensure you to turn off heaters when you leave a room or go to bed.)

Wood burning stove or fireplace:

Use closed metal container for ashes

· Only burn properly dry and seasoned wood in a fireplace or wood stove. Never burn trash, paper, or green wood.

· A chimney for a wood burning stove or fireplace should be inspected and cleaned annually by a certified chimney specialist at least once a year. The leading cause of chimney fires is from built up creosote.

· Ensure any fireplace is provided with a metal screen or heat-tempered glass, in good condition and secured in position in front of the fireplace.

· Dispose of cooled ashes in a closed metal container, which is then kept outside your home at least 10 ft. away from the house, wood deck, and any nearby buildings.

If heat is lost:

· Safely prevent pipes from freezing by running water, using alternative heating in a safer manner, and promptly making repairs to the primary heating system.

· If pipes do freeze, special care should be taken in thawing them. Open flames should never be used to thaw pipe.

Clothes dryers:

· With increased use of clothes dryers, be sure proper ventilation and lack of lint build-up in the ventilation system. Never leave a dryer running unattended

Finally, as in every season, have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. 
Know when and how to call “911” for help. And remember to practice your home escape plan.

For more information, the public is encouraged to contact the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau at 203-924-1555 or on the web under “Public Safety” at www.cityofshelton.org.


This is a press release from Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief, Fire Prevention in Shelton.