El Paso Fire Crews Respond to Possible Weather Related Fatality

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Fire crews responded to a possible weather related death on the corner of S. Mesa and Father Rahm at 5:30 a.m., Monday, December 05, 2011.  The 70-year old man was found dead on the scene.  The El Paso Police Department has turned the case over to the medical examiners office for the exact cause of death. No further information has been released at this time.

With extreme cold weather predicted throughout the week, the El Paso Fire Department would like to remind the public to take extreme precautions.  As a reminder, blankets may be donated to the Extreme Weather Task Force at any local fire station, or if you are in need of blankets please call 2-1-1 for immediate assistance.  The Salvation Army is currently available as a warming shelter with a capacity for an additional 100 persons.  The Office of Emergency Management is recommending that citizens use museums and libraries during business hours if needed and will continue to monitor the weather in case of any changes.

Extreme cold weather events result in increased fire related incidents and fatalities due to the actions taken by our citizens to stay warm.  It is important to practice these basic fire safety tips to help minimize the risks to you and your family during these extreme cold weather events:

Portable Heater Safety: Most home heating fires involve portable and space heaters, with gas (propane) and kerosene heaters accounting for the highest fatality risk.  Therefore:

• Only use portable heaters that have been approved for indoor use.
• Use space heaters with extreme care and inspect electric heaters for damaged cords.
  
• Keep combustible materials including furniture, drapes, and carpeting at least three feet away from the heat source.
  
• Never drape clothes over a space heater to dry.
• Always keep an eye on heating appliances. Never leave children alone in the room where a space heater is running. Turn it off when you are unable to closely monitor it.

Gas Stove Safety: Never attempt to use your gas stove or oven to heat your house.  The open flames from the stove are dangerous and the process results in high levels of carbon monoxide gas.

Carbon Monoxide Safety:  Watch out for symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, such as nausea, lightheadedness and headaches, especially when more than one person in the home is experiencing these symptoms. If you recognize these symptoms and suspect carbon monoxide, exit the home immediately. Call 911 from a safe location.

Smoke Alarms: Make sure working smoke detectors are installed on every level of the home. Test the detectors monthly and replace the batteries twice a year.  If you do not have a working smoke detector in your home and need assistance obtaining one, please contact the Fire Prevention Division at 485-5699.

For more information visit www.elpasotexas.gov/fire or contact the El Paso Fire Department at (915) 485-5699.



Author:El Paso Fire Department Press Release