If an emergency occurs:
- Call 911 immediately for any fire, fire alarm, smoke detector, or CO detector activation.
- Call 911 if you smell natural gas or have any electrical emergency.
Minutes make a difference — Call First! Call Fast!
Prepare your Heater
As the cooler weather approaches, it’s important to make sure your heating system is safe and ready for use.
Before turning on your heater:
- Have your system cleaned and serviced by a professional.
- Replace air filters to ensure proper airflow.
- Have your chimney inspected to make sure it’s clean and free of cracks or obstructions.
A malfunctioning heater can cause dangerous levels of carbon monoxide (CO) to build up inside your home or workplace.
No Leaf Burning
As fall leaves begin to drop, please remember that leaf burning is strictly prohibited in Brookhaven Borough.
Leaf burning creates dangerous smoke, releases harmful pollutants, and increases the risk of accidental fires.
Instead:
- Bag or compost your leaves according to the borough’s leaf collection schedule.
- Keep piles away from curbs, storm drains, and fire hydrants.
Thank you for helping keep our air clean and our neighborhoods safe.
Bonfire Safety Tips
Bonfires can be a fun way to enjoy cool evenings, but they must be handled responsibly.
- Always check borough regulations before starting any open fire.
- Keep fires small, manageable, and at least 25 feet away from structures, trees, and other combustibles.
- Never use gasoline or other accelerants to start or revive a fire.
- Keep a garden hose, bucket of water, or extinguisher nearby.
- Fully extinguish your fire before leaving it unattended — stir the ashes and douse them with water until cool.
Let’s keep gatherings safe, warm, and enjoyable for everyone.
Turkey Fryer Safety Tips
Deep-fried turkeys are delicious, but turkey fryers can be extremely dangerous if not used properly.
Before you fry:
- Always use your fryer outdoors, on a flat, stable surface, and at least 10 feet away from buildings, decks, and vehicles.
- Never use a turkey fryer inside a garage or on a wooden deck.
- Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and dry before lowering it into hot oil — water and oil don’t mix!
- Keep children and pets at a safe distance.
Have a fire extinguisher rated for grease fires (Class K) nearby.
Never use water to put out an oil fire — call 911 immediately if a fire occurs.
Homeowner’s Insurance Tips
Now is a great time to review your homeowner’s insurance policy and confirm that you have proper and complete coverage.
Speak with your insurance agent or representative to ensure your policy covers:
- The entire structure, including garages, sheds, carports, and recent additions or renovations.
- More than just fire — include windstorms, flood, and other natural disaster coverage.
Tip: Take clear photos and documentation of each room and store them in a safe place for future reference.
If you rent your home or apartment, make sure you have renters’ insurance to protect your personal belongings and valuables.
Holiday Fire Safety
The holiday season is just around the corner! The Fire Marshal reminds all residents to keep fire safety in mind as you decorate and celebrate.
- Check lights and decorations for frayed wires or damage.
- Keep candles and heat sources away from flammable materials.
- Always turn off decorations before going to bed or leaving the house.
Let’s all do our part to ensure a safe, joyful, and fire-free holiday season.
A Message from the Fire Marshal
My goal is to make sure every Brookhaven Borough resident stays safe and free from the tragedy of fire. Your attention to safety and preparedness helps protect your home, your family, and our entire community.
