Ocean County Prosecutor Releases Statement on Fire Safety After Recent Fatal Fires

Tragedy Strikes Ocean County with Recent Spate of Deadly Fires

In a recent press statement, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer addressed the alarming increase in structure fires that have plagued the county this year. Out of the six reported fires, a staggering five have resulted in fatalities, leaving a trail of shattered families and endangering the lives of fire, police, and emergency service personnel. The common thread linking these disastrous incidents is the improper discarding of smoking materials, highlighting the need for urgent attention and education regarding cigarette safety.

The Prosecutor emphasized the gravity of these events, cautioning against the diminishing impact of words such as “fatal,” “tragic,” and “heartbreaking.” Instead, he urged the public to recognize that these descriptions hold real-life consequences for individuals and their loved ones. Such catastrophic losses, stemming from preventable actions, have unfolded before the eyes of the county in the past three weeks alone, claiming the lives of mothers, fathers, siblings, children, extended family members, and friends. It is imperative that the community takes heed of the following safety measures to avert further devastating incidents.

First and foremost, the Prosecutor emphasized the importance of using fire-safe cigarettes and smoking outdoors to mitigate the risk of igniting fires indoors. Fire-related deaths predominantly occur in commonly used areas of the home, such as living rooms, family rooms, dens, and bedrooms. Curbing access to smoking materials by storing them in locked cabinets out of the reach of children is another crucial measure. Additionally, smokers should always utilize deep and sturdy ashtrays, keeping them away from flammable surfaces, such as furniture or drapes.

Furthermore, it is paramount to exercise caution when discarding cigarette butts or ashes. These should never be thrown into vegetation such as mulch, potted plants, peat moss, or dried grass, as they can easily ignite. Properly extinguishing smoking materials by dousing them in water or sand prior to disposal is the best course of action. It is also essential to maintain a smoke-free environment where medical oxygen is used, as it enhances the flammability of materials and accelerates the intensity of fires.

In addition to cigarette safety, the Prosecutor highlighted the increased fire risks associated with hoarding. Keeping flammable items near cooking areas or placing heating units on unstable surfaces can have disastrous consequences. Damaged electrical wiring, possibly caused by pests, also poses a significant fire hazard. The presence of excess clutter in a household amplifies the dangers of open flames from smoking materials or candles and obstructs escape routes, impeding the efforts of first responders.

The formidable challenges faced by firefighters in hoarding homes cannot be underestimated. Not only do cluttered interiors impede swift movement and search and rescue operations, but the weight of stored items, especially when combined with firefighting efforts, may result in building collapse. In such environments, providing medical care becomes exceptionally arduous. Consequently, the Prosecutor implored the community to prioritize fire safety and make it a collective responsibility.

In conclusion, the Prosecutor issued a stern reminder that the majority of fires are entirely avoidable. The preservation of life should be at the forefront of every individual’s mind, and adherence to the outlined safety guidelines is paramount. Additionally, ensuring the presence and proper functioning of smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and appropriately sized fire extinguishers in the kitchen is crucial. The prosecutor’s office has provided additional informational resources through accompanying flyers to further educate the community on fire safety measures.

By implementing these strategies and remaining vigilant, Ocean County residents can work towards reducing the risk of devastating fires, safeguarding their homes, and protecting their loved ones.