Federal grants mean more (and safer) firefighters

Thanks to three federal grants approved Monday night by the city council, the College Station Fire Department will soon have more trained, front-line firefighters available in our community. The $1.2 million in grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency significantly enhance the department’s capabilities by not only adding firefighters but also equipping stations with diesel exhaust removal systems and providing training for standardized emergency operations management. Continue reading Federal grants mean more (and safer) firefighters

Fire, Public Communications

Smart tips for a safe and festive Fourth of July

Most of us build our traditional Independence Day celebrations around family and friends, not to mention plenty of bright and colorful fireworks. As you prepare for your Fourth of July celebration, here are some other things to keep in mind. Continue reading Smart tips for a safe and festive Fourth of July

Fire, Public Communications

CSFD’s free program reduces stovetop fire risks

Cooking equipment is the leading cause of home structure fires and injuries and the second leading cause of home fire deaths. The elderly are the most at risk. The College Station Fire Department can help minimize that risk by installing a free StoveTop FireStop fire suppression system for residents at least 65 years old. Continue reading CSFD’s free program reduces stovetop fire risks

Fire, Public Communications

Low limbs can wreak expensive havoc on fire trucks

Everyone loves trees, especially the towering ones that were around long before our grandparents. Unfortunately, large limbs from many of these gorgeous trees eventually become overgrown and hang perilously above residential streets. The thick canopy formed by the branches aren’t a problem for most vehicles, but fire, utility and trash trucks are a different matter. Continue reading Low limbs can wreak expensive havoc on fire trucks

Fire, Public Communications

CSFD joins elite company with Class 1 ISO rating

Everyone likes to be No. 1, especially in a sports-crazed town such as College Station. But in some cases, being No. 1 means much more than bragging rights with your rivals. Take College Station’s new Class 1 ISO fire rating, which is effective Monday. Fewer than one percent of the 47,500 fire protection areas in the United States are rated as ISO Class 1. Continue reading CSFD joins elite company with Class 1 ISO rating

Fire, Public Communications

Planning is essential for your family’s fire safety

By Carter Hall, College Station Firefighter

Home fires kill an average of about seven people every day. But did you know almost half of those are children under the age of five?

Most young kids don’t understand fire dangers and are incapable of knowing how to get out of a burning building. As adults, it’s our responsibility to take precautions such as installing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, reducing fire risks, and practicing a fire escape plan. Continue reading “Planning is essential for your family’s fire safety”