🔥 The Firehouse Journal

Stories, Safety & Service from Your Local First Responders
Welcome to The Firehouse Journal—your inside look at life behind the sirens. We will periodically share practical fire and home safety tips, community updates, volunteer spotlights, and ways you can get involved with the Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company.
Whether you’re here to stay informed, stay safe, or find your place in the fire service family, you’ll find it all right here.
Check out our latest articles HERE —fresh from the station.

🌸 Spring Cleaning Fire Safety: What You’re Forgetting

(And Why It Matters More Than You Think)

As the weather warms up and spring cleaning gets underway, most of us think about decluttering closets, scrubbing floors, or finally tackling the garage. But while you’re already in “refresh” mode, it’s the perfect time to add something critical to your checklist: fire safety.

Many common household fire hazards go unnoticed all year—and spring is your opportunity to catch them before they catch you off guard.

Here are the top fire safety tasks most people forget during spring cleaning, and how a few small changes can make a big difference.

🧹 1. Clean Out the Dryer Vent (Not Just the Lint Trap!)

Sure, you empty the lint screen—but what about the duct behind your dryer? Lint buildup in the vent line is one of the leading causes of dryer fires.
What to do: Unplug the dryer, disconnect the vent hose, and vacuum it out thoroughly. Consider a professional cleaning if it hasn’t been done in a few years.

🔌 2. Inspect Power Strips & Extension Cords

They’re everywhere—behind furniture, under desks, in garages. But cracked cords, overloaded strips, or cheap knockoffs can overheat and ignite.
What to do: Replace any damaged cords. Make sure outlets and strips aren’t overloaded, and only use strips with internal circuit breakers.

🕯️ 3. Check for Hidden Candle Hazards

Candles left on bookshelves or windowsills can ignite nearby materials like curtains, paper, or even decorations.
What to do: Move candles to sturdy, nonflammable surfaces. Trim wicks, keep them away from drafts, and never leave them unattended.

🧯 4. Test and Clean Smoke & CO Detectors

They’re your first line of defense—but only if they work.
What to do:

  • Test every detector (monthly is ideal).
  • Replace batteries if needed.
  • Vacuum around vents to clear dust and debris.
  • Replace any unit older than 10 years.

đź’ˇ 5. Check Your Light Fixtures

It’s easy to forget that lightbulbs get hot—especially if you’ve accidentally installed bulbs that exceed a fixture’s wattage limit.
What to do: Check and match bulb wattage with fixture recommendations. Clean out dust and avoid placing flammable materials near lamps.

🔥 6. Store Flammables Safely

Garage and basement shelves can become accidental fire hazards with improperly stored cleaners, paints, and fuel.
What to do:

  • Keep flammable liquids in tightly sealed containers away from heat sources.
  • Dispose of old or expired chemicals at your local hazardous waste facility.
  • Never store propane tanks indoors or in garages.

🧽 7. Deep-Clean Behind Appliances

Dust, grease, and crumbs behind stoves, fridges, and water heaters can feed a fire before you even know it’s started.
What to do: Unplug (if safe), move the appliance slightly, and clean behind/underneath. Check cords and connections while you’re at it.

🔥 Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company Needs You
 We’re your neighbors, friends, and family—100% volunteer and always ready to answer the call. But we can’t do it alone.

Whether you’re interested in firefighting, driving, or supporting behind the scenes, there’s a role for you at Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company. No experience needed—we’ll provide the training, gear, and support.

Are you ready to make a difference? [Click here to learn more and get involved]