ANC 4B09 Commissioner Doug Sloan held a fire safety meeting last night. He will update the community about any requests for assistance from the family affected by Sunday’s fire. The fire department is still investigating, but they believe the fire was accidental and that there was no foul play.

The interim fire chief and other fire department officials did a wonderful job of providing very useful information on topics such as proper use of extension cords and fire extinguishers and creating a family evacuation plan.

Residents can contact 311 (either online or by phone) to request smoke alarms and fire department personnel will install them free of charge.  The great thing is that the free alarms are 10-year lithium battery alarms, so people do not have to worry about changing the battery every six months. Fire officials also recommended having at least one working carbon monoxide alarm in the home.

DC’s Adult Protective Services will assist residents who have a dangerous accumulation of items in their home (known as hoarding) with house cleaning. This service is also offered free of charge. Fire department officials noted that hoarding is dangerous because it increases the number of items that can burn, increasing the severity of the fire and the danger of smoke inhalation. Accumulated items can also impede an individual’s exit out of danger and make it more difficult for rescue personnel to conduct their activities.

Fire department personnel mentioned they are really trying to get the word out about these services, particularly to seniors. Let your neighbors know.