FAQ
Fire Safety
How do I prepare for wildfire season?
Johnson County experiences wildfire risk, especially during dry conditions. Protect your property with these defensible space measures:
- Clear vegetation within 30 feet of structures (mow grass, remove dead plants)
- Trim tree branches 10 feet from your roof and chimney
- Remove debris from gutters, roof, and under decks
- Stack firewood at least 30 feet from structures
- Use fire-resistant materials for roof, siding, and landscaping
- Create fuel breaks using gravel pathways or driveways
Keep garden hoses connected and ready. If a wildfire threatens your area and you're told to evacuate, leave immediately. Your life is more valuable than property.
More Answers About Fire Safety
Fire Safety
Why is my smoke alarm chirping?
If the detector is chirping and no sign of fire or smoke is present, replace the battery as soon as possible. Without a working battery, a smoke detector can't do its job and the risk of dying in a fire increases greatly. Smoke detector batteries should be changed when you...
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Fire Safety
How many smoke alarms do I need?
One smoke alarm isn’t enough! You should have at least one smoke alarm in every bedroom and in the hallway outside each bedroom. A typical three-bedroom home would need at least four properly installed smoke alarms to provide a reasonable amount of protection for your family. Smoke rises, so the...
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Fire Safety
How do I prevent kitchen fires?
Kitchen fires are the leading cause of home fires. Follow these safety tips to prevent cooking fires:Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling, or broiling foodKeep flammables away from the stovetop (towels, packaging, curtains)Turn pot handles inward to prevent spills and burnsKeep a lid nearby to smother grease fires -...
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Check Your Smoke Alarm Placement
Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home, inside every bedroom, and outside each sleeping area. Mount them on the ceiling or high on a wall, 6 to 8 inches below the ceiling. Avoid placing them near windows, doors, or ducts where drafts could interfere with their operation.
Plan for Pets in Your Escape Plan
Include your pets in your home fire escape plan. Keep collars and leashes near the door for quick access. Place a pet alert sticker on a front window to let firefighters know how many and what types of pets are inside. If you must evacuate without your pet, tell the firefighters immediately.