Incident Command Post Training

Utilizing the knowledge covered in Module 6 of the CERT training, five teams tried their best to keep tabs on a rush of incoming disaster reports as part of the ICP training conducted tonight.  The exercise was a success, keeping everyone on their toes as they became familiar with the various roles, responsibilities and paperwork required to manage an Incident Command Post.

This was a good warm up and familiarization for next month’s Silver Dragon exercise.  Teams roles were Incident Commander, Scribe, Logistics, Staging and Planning/Maps.

Candles Off Preparedness Lists

Based upon a significant rise in home fires due to lit candles and the fact that many states are now legislating against the use of candles in care facilities we service, GetReadyGEAR has eliminated candles from our Home Survival Kits. 

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), candles cause an estimated 15,600 fires in residential structures, 150 deaths, 1,270 injuries, and $539 million in estimated direct property damage each year.

• Over half (55%) of home candle fires start because the candle is too close to some combustible material.
• More candle fires (38%) begin in the bedroom than in any other room.
• Falling asleep is a factor in 12% of home candle fires and 26% of the associated deaths.
• Half of all civilian candle fire deaths occur between Midnight and 6am.
• December is the peak month for candle fires; Christmas is the peak day.
• Young children and older adults have the highest death risk from candle fires.
• The risk of a fatal candle fire appears higher when candles are used for light.

As a result, the NFPA now recommends:

• Avoid using lighted candles.
• If you do use candles, ensure they are in sturdy metal, glass, or ceramic holders and placed where they cannot be easily knocked down.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
• Set a good example by using matches, lighters, and fire carefully.
• Children should never be allowed to play with matches, lighters or candles.
• Never put candles on a Christmas tree.
• Never leave the house with candles burning.
• Extinguish candles after use.
• Establish a fire-safe home, especially a safe sleeping environment.
• And NEVER leave burning candles unattended!

Given these recommendations, GetReadyGEAR now provides 3 -12 hour cyalume sticks capable of providing light for up to 3 nights in our home survival kits.  We strongly recommend that you re-evaluate your home preparedness plan and exchange candles for additional cyalume sticks or alternative light sources.

This information has been provided for our CERT group’s use courtesy of GetReadyGear

Redwood City CERT Training Trailer

Last night was productive as a work team organized the new CERT trailer dedicated to training support.  This trailer provides Redwood City/San Carlos CERT with a portable means of providing skills training anywhere, including fire pan exercises.  Many thanks to George Walschon for his physical and logistical assistance with the trailer.