Latest news with #firePrevention
Fox News
20-07-2025
- Climate
- Fox News
Colorado utilizing grazing cattle to help prevent wildfires in at-risk areas
BOULDER, Colo. – As part of a growing effort to reduce the risk of wildfires in Colorado, cattle are being deployed to eat dry grass that often fuels fast-moving flames. City officials in Boulder County have partnered with local ranchers to bring herds into at-risk neighborhoods, including areas near Wonderland Lake Park, where 70 cattle grazed 35 acres of land. Paul Dennison, who is with Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks, told Fox News that cattle grazing began in early June, which brought the grass height down from the three to four feet expected if left unmanaged. The Colorado region's mountainous terrain, dry climate, and frequent winds make it especially vulnerable to wildfire. Dennison explained that using cattle to keep vegetation low can slow potential fire spread and give firefighters more time to respond. "As the cattle trample as they graze, they break up some of that thatch, so we are looking at reduction of fuel height in the grasses, and we are also looking for some decomposition and degradation of the thatch that lies underneath the living grass," Dennison added. Local ranchers bring the herd in by trailer and rotate them through five-acre sections over two-week periods, Dennison said. U.S. Forest Service Deputy Chief John Crockett said most people think cattle are the primary grazer, but the agency uses cattle, sheep, goat and "basically anything that uses the grasses and fine fuels as a food source." Boulder Fire Rescue's public information officer, Jamie Barker, said grazing cattle are great for their fire department in both the warmer months and the fall. This year's heavy rainfall has created even more vegetation, which is good for now, but a future concern as it dries out, Barker explained. "I think a lot of people are really excited, because their green is getting greener and growing taller," said Barker. "But at the end of the day, that green that's getting greener and growing taller is also going to dry out; and that's going to pose a risk to some capacity for wildfires." The U.S. Department of Agriculture says similar grazing programs are becoming more common across the West, with states like Idaho and Nevada also using livestock to help manage wildfire risk. Boulder officials said the plan is to move the herd to another at-risk area later this fall.
CTV News
18-07-2025
- CTV News
Crews battle overnight fire in Old East Village
London fire crews were called to a home on Dufferin Avenue in the early morning hours of July 18, 2025. (Source: London fire) A residential fire in Old East Village kept crews busy overnight. Around 3 a.m. firefighters responded to the two-storey home on Dufferin Avenue near Quebec street. According to London fire, the home was 'fully involved' and an aggressive attack was initiated, with multiple units on scene. The fire was declared out a few hours later but due to the extensive damage, one truck is staying at the scene to monitor for hotspots. Dufferin Avenue is completely blocked between Ontario and Quebec streets. A fire prevention officer is on the scene to determine the cause. There is no if anybody was home at the time of the blaze. More details will be provided as they become available.
UAE Moments
28-06-2025
- General
- UAE Moments
High-Rise Fires: Causes and How to Extinguish Them
High-rise buildings present unique fire safety challenges due to their height, dense occupancy, and complex structures. From faulty electrical systems to careless human behavior, understanding the causes of high-rise fires is the first step in prevention and preparedness. Top Causes of Fires in High-Rise Buildings Electrical Malfunctions Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and aging electrical systems are leading causes. Appliances left plugged in or faulty extension cords also contribute. Cooking Accidents Unattended cooking in apartments or staff pantries can quickly escalate. Oil and grease fires are particularly dangerous. Heating Equipment Portable heaters placed too close to flammable materials. Malfunctioning central heating systems. Smoking Materials Cigarettes improperly discarded in trash chutes or near balconies. Often a cause of fires during late-night hours when detection is delayed. Arson and Vandalism Intentional fire setting in stairwells, basements, or storage areas. Sometimes linked to disputes or security lapses. Flammable Materials Storage Cleaning supplies, paint, and solvents stored improperly in maintenance rooms. Inadequate ventilation can increase risk. How to Extinguish Fires in High-Rise Buildings Extinguishing fires in high-rises requires speed, knowledge, and the right equipment: Essential Fire Safety Training for Residents and Staff 1. Fire Extinguisher Training: Learn the PASS technique: Pull the pin Aim at the base Squeeze the handle Sweep side to side 2. Evacuation Drills: Regular drills ensure familiarity with: Primary and secondary escape routes. Designated assembly points. Roles for floor wardens and staff during emergencies. 3. Understanding Fire Alarm Systems: Residents and staff should know: What the alarms sound like. How to respond immediately without panic. How to assist elderly or disabled occupants. 4. Basic Fire Behavior Awareness: Training should cover: How quickly fires can spread in high-rise structures. Dangers of smoke inhalation. Why staying low and checking doors for heat is critical. 5. Maintenance Staff Training: Maintenance personnel should be trained to: Check and maintain fire extinguishers and alarms. Inspect electrical and heating systems regularly. Ensure exits and stairwells are clear at all times. High-rise fires are preventable with vigilance, proper equipment, and consistent training. Understanding the top causes, from electrical faults to human negligence, helps residents and building managers take proactive measures. Remember, while extinguishing small fires is possible, evacuation should always take priority when in doubt. Regular fire safety training can save lives, protect property, and ensure a safer environment for everyone in high-rise buildings.
