PUBLIC EDUCATION

ICE

(In Case of Emergency)

EMTs will turn to a victim’s cell phone for clues to that person’s identity. You can make their job easier with a simple idea that they are trying to get everyone to adopt: ICE.

ICE stands for In Case of Emergency. If you add an entry in the contacts list in your phone under ice, with the name and phone number of the person that the emergency services should call on your behalf, you can save them a lot of time and have your loved ones contacted quickly. It only takes a few moments of your time to do.

EMTs know what ICE means and they look for it immediately. ICE your phone NOW!

Fire & Home Safety

Dial 911...For Emergencies

Homes & Businesses

The Berkeley Fire Department asks that all residents and business owners mark their homes and businesses with the correct street address in a highly visible area. This is especially important at night and in inclement weather. Ordinance

Smoke Detectors Save Lives!!!

A smoke detector is designed to provide an early warning of a potential problem. They provide quick recognition of smoke within a building and allow the occupants more time to escape a burning structure. Smoke detectors should be placed outside of your bedrooms and on each floor of your residence. If you have any questions, please contact our Fire Prevention Bureau at (708) 449-9444.

The Berkeley Fire Department recommends that residents check the batteries in their smoke detectors to ensure they are in working order. Change smoke detector batteries at least once a year. A working smoke detector reduces the risk of dying in a home fire by nearly one half.

Maintenance of your smoke detectors

• Change the batteries when you change your clocks in the spring and fall.
• Check detectors once a month.
• Keep them clean.
• Keep your owner's manual, and follow all manufacturer recommendations, especially replacement intervals.

Fire Safety Tips

• There should be a smoke detector on each level of your house and outside your bedrooms.
• Replace your batteries when you change your clocks (Spring and Fall).
• Replace your detectors according to manufacturer recommendations.
• Develop escape plans for all family members. These plans should include at least two means of escape and a meeting place outside the house. Make sure to practice the plan on a regular basis and post the plan where everyone can see it.
• Practice Stop, Drop & Roll with your children.
• Never smoke in bed.
• Extinguish all candles before leaving your home and going to bed.
• Avoid overloading electrical circuits.
• Have fire extinguishers in the kitchen, laundry room, garage, and workshops.
• Have your furnace and chimney inspected on a regular basis.
• Install a screen in front of wood-burning fire places to keep embers and sparks in.
• Clothes dryer: Clean lint trap frequently and inspect vent hose for lint build up and leaks.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a tasteless, odorless gas that is often not detected and is referred to as "a silent killer." The Berkeley Fire Department recommends that each home has a carbon monoxide detector, in addition to smoke detectors. If the detector activates, we recommend you leave your house and call 911, especially if you or your family members are feeling ill. The Berkeley Fire Department has the equipment to monitor your house if your detector activates.