Cochrane fire department is warning Cochranites not to be fooled by the cool weather when it comes to fires. “Even with the snow on the ground the way it is, just a simple cigarette butt out the window there’s still a ton of dry grass and dry leaves and trees,” said Lt. Jeff Avery of Cochrane Fire Services. “The fire load is still pretty high.” The message is part of National Fire Prevention week which runs form Oct. 7 to 12. Avery said the reminder is especially important over holidays in the winter months. “Coming into the holiday season with putting Christmas lights up – frayed cords, too many cords on one circuit and dry Christmas trees and all that sort of stuff,” he said. “Once we get into the winter, I think we let our guard down a little bit but it still can happen for sure.” Avery said last year, he looked into more winter fire investigations than summer fires. The fire prevention week focus this year is “look, listen and learn, be aware and fire can happen anywhere,” Avery said. Tips to follow this winter include fireplace safety and making sure chimneys are cleaned and serviced at regular intervals by a professional. When it comes to cords, if the lights dim every time an appliance is turned on, or if it sparks, it could mean the circuit is overloaded or has a loose connection. Avery also suggests not using open flame candles, or if they are being used, to ensure they are surrounded by glass to protect the flame from catching. “Cochrane Fire is around 24/7. Hopefully you don’t have to call us, but if you do we’re here,” Avery said.
