FIRE PREVENTION

It is the mission of the Jersey City Fire Prevention Bureau to minimize the number of fires within Jersey City and reduce the severity of fires when they occur. This mission shall be accomplished through routine and cyclical inspections of all Properties and business’ as required by the New Jersey State Fire Code and applicable City Ordinances.

Get your FREE Child Finder and/or Pet Finder Stickers from JCFD's Fire Prevention Office by simply emailing [email protected]  Please include your name, address, type (Child Finder and/or Pet Finder) of sticker requested, and the amount of stickers needed.

WINTER FIRE SAFETY CHECK-LIST

• INSTALL A CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR

Since you tend to use your gas appliances more in the winter, it’s particularly important to monitor carbon monoxide levels in your home. Remember to install a carbon monoxide detector and do not run any gasoline-powered generators in a garage or any other enclosed space.

• NEVER BLOCK OVEN VENTS

When cooking or baking, never block the vents in the bottom of your oven by lining them with foil or oven protectors as blocked vents can cause carbon monoxide accumulation.

• KEEP EXTERIOR  FURNACE PIPES, CHIMNEYS & VENTS CLEAR OF SNOW

When it snows, keep any high-efficiency furnace pipes on the outside of your home clear of snow – otherwise, you may inadvertently allow carbon monoxide to build up in your home. Also clear chimneys and vents for other gas appliances.

• ASSURE GAS METERS ARE NOT BLOCKED WITH ICE OR SNOW
  
  Accumulation of ice or snow can interfere with the proper operation of your gas metering system. The meter assembly may contain a regulator that is designed to safely release pressurized gas in the event of a malfunction. Blocking the regulator vent could create an unsafe condition where gas is not able to escape from internal piping.
  
  Snow and ice can damage gas meters and piping. Be careful when removing snow from around the gas meter; any damage to the gas meter could potentially create a possible leak hazard.
  
  Use a broom to keep the gas meter, pressure regulator, and vent piping clear of snow and ice during the winter season.

• PROTECT CHIMNEYS & VENTS FROM ANIMALS OR INSECT NEXTS
  
  Chimneys and vents should be protected using an approved cap or screen to keep small animals or insects from entering. These pests have been known to build nests inside chimneys or vents and can cause potentially hazardous conditions.

• INSPECT & CLEAN DRYER VENTS

Ensure they are clear of debris, lint and condensation, which can become a fire hazard especially in the winter when drying heavier clothing and bedding.

• CHANGE CONNECTORS FOR NEW APPLIANCES
  
  If you’re installing new gas appliances, change the connectors as well to prevent leaks and use safer, more modern materials.

• PROPANE TANK & FLAMMABLE GAS OR LIQUID STORAGE
  
  Do not store propane tanks or any other highly flammable gas/liquid in your home, as they can become extremely hazardous in the event of a fire.

• GAS ODORS
  
  If you smell a gas odor, immediately exit the building, move at least 350 feet away and call PSE&G at 1-800-880-PSEG (7734) OR Call 911.