Media Release
Contact: Richard Palmer
Phone: (937) 433-3083 ext. 22
Mobile: (937) 671-8157
September 19, 2008
For Immediate Release
The Washington Township Fire Department continues to observe hazardous activities and behavior related to the events of the recent wind storm in the community.
OPEN BURNING
– Regulations on open burning are still in place. Storm recovery activities do not exempt property owners from these regulations. Burning fresh-fallen tree limbs, branches, and leaves creates several fire and environmental hazards. Open burning is being monitored and enforced. Please follow your community’s plan for the removal of yard debris.
DEBRIS REMOVAL
– Some waste carriers are beginning to limit the number of “bundles” of debris that they will collect. Washington Township recommends that residents place any branches and debris at the curb. Washington Township crews will chip and remove yard debris as soon as possible. Please be aware that it may take time to arrive in your neighborhood, as there is much to be removed throughout the community.
POWER CORDS
– Many residents and businesses are still using extension cords to get power from homes and buildings that have electricity. Some are using these to power homes from portable generators. Please be aware that many extension cords do not have a high enough power rating to power some equipment. Using cords that may become overheated creates a significant fire hazard to both the property receiving the power AND the property providing the electric.
Cords placed over driveways and streets create additional and significant fire hazards. These cords are quickly damaged when vehicles travel over them. Frayed wires in these cords will eventually lead to over-heating and fire.
POWER LINES
– Residents are advised to maintain a heightened sense of awareness around power lines that may have fallen on their property. Also, be aware of lines that are entangled in tree branches and yard debris. When the power is activated in your area, these lines will be energized. Do not engage in activities that cause you to contact these lines. Let professionals remove these from the area of concern.
RETURNING TO POWER
– When your power does return, please remember to ease into use. Check your circuit boxes and outlets for potential problems. If you find partial power in the home it may mean that you are running with only partial phase. If you find any concerns, contact a qualified electrician before attempting to return to normal use.
TRAFFIC SIGNALS
– Some traffic signals in the community are still not functioning. Be cautious when approaching intersections. It is easy to miss a temporary stop sign, so be aware of these areas. In Washington Township only three intersections are known to be using temporary four-way stops. These include: State Route 48 at I-675 northbound ramp; State Route 725 at Paragon Road, and State Route 48 at Boundbrook.
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