Continued:

You can keep a fire extinguisher in your vehicle, but be certain that it is the correct type and that you know how to use it.  If you are not sure of its use or do not feel comfortable, do not take unnecessary chances.  You should only attempt to extinguish small fires; if the fire is large, call 9-1-1 and wait at a safe distance for the fire company to arrive.  Your vehicle and other personal possessions can usually be replaced, but you cannot! 

Always place children in a car seat that is approved by an independent testing laboratory, and is properly fastened.  Make certain that everyone wears his or her seatbelt.  Fire departments respond to many vehicle accidents and find that those individuals that are properly restrained suffer less serious injuries. 

Do not drink and drive!   This combination often results in the fire department and other emergency services being called to assist the victims of vehicle accidents.    

Fire safety is something that everyone needs to be aware of 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Do not wait until it is too late, practice fire safety every day!  If you have any questions or comments about this article, or any other fire safety subject, please feel free to call the Fire Company at 215-646-2555 (Option #6) or stop into either fire station any Monday night.  The Fire Prevention Committee is available to present programs upon request. The Fort Washington Fire Company provides additional fire safety information on the Internet at www.fortwashingtonfc.org.