Our Fire Prevention Committee visits kids at many of our local schools, churches and camps. We speak to them about fire safety and how to protect themselves should there be an emergency. Sometimes we have a little fun with doing “wet downs” for their enjoyment. Further down the page you will find helpful hints on how to keep your family and yourselves safe.

For information please email fireprevention@stjamesfd.org

Welcome to the St. James Fire Department Fire Prevention Page!

At the St. James Fire Department, our mission is to keep our community safe through proactive fire prevention measures. Whether you’re a child, adult, or senior citizen, we have tailored fire safety tips to help you stay safe. Remember, fire prevention is everyone’s responsibility!

Fire Safety for Kids

Know the Basics

• Stop, Drop, and Roll: If your clothes catch on fire, remember to stop where you are, drop to the ground, and roll over and over until the flames are out.
• Fire Drills: Practice fire drills at home and at school. Make sure you know two ways out of every room.
• Smoke Alarms: Learn the sound of the smoke alarm and what to do when you hear it—get low and go to your family’s meeting spot outside.

Safety Tips

• Matches and Lighters: These are tools for adults, not toys. If you find them, tell an adult.
• Escape Plan: Draw a map of your home with your family. Mark two exits from each room and a path to the outside.
• 911: Know how to call 911 in an emergency and practice what to say.

Fire Safety for Adults

Home Safety

• Smoke Alarms: Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year.
• Fire Extinguishers: Keep a fire extinguisher in key areas like the kitchen and garage. Learn how to use it (remember PASS: Pull the pin, Aim low, Squeeze the handle, Sweep side to side).
• Escape Plan: Create and practice a home fire escape plan with your family. Make sure everyone knows how to get out and where to meet once outside.

Kitchen Safety

• Stay Alert: Never leave cooking unattended. If you must leave the kitchen, even for a short time, turn off the stove.
• Keep it Clean: Keep anything that can catch fire—oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains—away from your stovetop.
• Grease Fires: If a fire starts in a pan, cover it with a lid to smother the flames. Never use water on a grease fire.

Fire Safety for Senior Citizens

Preventing Fires

• Smoking: If you smoke, do so outside. Use deep, sturdy ashtrays. Never smoke in bed or if you’re feeling drowsy.
• Space Heaters: Keep heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn. Turn them off when you leave the room or go to bed.
• Electrical Safety: Avoid overloading outlets and use extension cords wisely. Replace damaged cords immediately.

Emergency Preparedness

• Plan and Practice: Have an escape plan that considers your mobility. Practice it regularly.
• Hearing Impaired: Install smoke alarms with flashing lights and vibration if you have difficulty hearing.
• Medical Needs: Keep important items like medications, glasses, and hearing aids near your bed and ready to grab in an emergency.

Community Resources

• Fire Safety Education Programs: We offer programs for schools, community groups, and seniors. Contact us to schedule a session.
• Home Safety Inspections: Our team can visit your home to check for fire hazards and install smoke alarms if needed.
• Volunteer Opportunities: Join us in our mission to keep St. James safe. Whether as a firefighter or in a support role, your contribution makes a difference.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need further information, please reach out to the St. James Fire Department at (631) 584-5760 or visit our station at 533 NY-25A, St. James, NY 11780. Stay safe!

Remember, fire prevention is a shared responsibility. By working together, we can protect our loved ones and our community from the dangers of fire.