Pensacola Times

Escambia County Fire Rescue has added three more red bulbs to the wreath after three residential structure fires over the weekend. This brings the total to six red bulbs on the wreath during the 2022 Keep the Wreath Green campaign.

On Friday, Dec. 16, Escambia County Fire Rescue units E6, E1, E4, SQ3, L12, BC2 and BC3 responded to a residential structure fire at the 1600 block of Eagle Terrace. Upon arrival, smoke was showing from the ridge of the roof. Further investigation revealed fire damage to the rear of the single-story home. Fortunately, the occupants acted quickly and managed to extinguish much of the fire using a garden hose, preventing additional damage to the home. There were no injuries or fatalities. The damages resulted in the fourth red bulb being added to the wreath. After investigation, the cause of the fire was from a discarded cigarette.

On Saturday, Dec. 18, ECFR units E17, L12, E11, E16, SQ3, BC2, BC3 and T11 responded to a residential structure fire at the 800 block of N. Green Street. Upon arrival, a mobile home was engulfed in flames. ECFR's rapid and aggressive response knocked down the fire within 10 minutes after arrival. No one was home at the time of the fire, so there were no injuries or fatalities. The home is a total loss, resulting in the fifth red bulb added to the wreath. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

On Sunday, Dec. 19, ECFR units E6, E7, SQ3, E1, L12, BC2 and BC3 responded to a residential structure fire at the 100 block of Ensley Street. Upon arrival, 50% of the structure was on fire. The occupants managed to safely exit the structure, but advised that three dogs were still inside. Firefighters entered the residence to recover the animals. Unfortunately, all three dogs succumbed to the fire. The damages have resulted in a total loss to the structure. The American Red Cross has assisted those displaced. This structure fire has resulted in the sixth red bulb being added to the wreath. The cause of the fire was determined to be from space heaters and electrical wiring issues.

If your home does not have a working smoke detector, please call Escambia County Fire Rescue at 850-595-HERO (4376) or 850-436-5200 for City of Pensacola residents.The “Keep the Wreath Green” fire safety campaign is a collaborative initiative with the City of Pensacola to promote fire safety during December. During the month-long campaign, five-foot wreaths are on display at 21 county fire stations, five city fire stations, Escambia County's Ernie Lee Magaha Government Building downtown, the Escambia County Public Safety Building and Pensacola City Hall. Each time firefighters respond to a residential fire with damage, a green light bulb will be replaced with a red one to remind citizens of the dangers posed by fires in a residential home. For more tips on how to stay safe during the holiday season, visit MyEscambia.com/KeeptheWreathGreen.

Safety Tips: 

Escambia County Fire Rescue encourages everyone to practice fire safety, especially during the holiday season. Residents are encouraged to follow these safety tips so everyone can have a safe and happy holiday:

• Remember to blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
• Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep.
• Remember to check the wires of appliances regularly and to replace or repair frayed, damaged cables.
• Unplug all small electrical appliances, such as irons and toasters when not in use.
• Check smoke detectors regularly to make sure they are working properly.
• Communicate an escape plan to other members of the household in the event of a fire.

For fire safety tips and other updates from Escambia County Fire Rescue, like Escambia County Fire Rescue on Facebook.

Original source can be found here.