The City of Laredo would like to remind the public that celebrating with fireworks within the city limits is illegal. Although, fireworks and celebrations go together, especially during the Fourth of July it can be dangerous. Serious burn and eye injuries have resulted from using fire works improperly. That's why the Laredo Fire department and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission strongly recommend the following:
· Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
· Read and follow all warnings and instructions
· Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
· Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves, and flammable materials.
· Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned.
· Keep a bucket of water in case of a malfunction or fire.
Friday, June 29, 2007
Monday, June 25, 2007
Fire sends six to the hospital
The alarm sounded for a residential fire at about 7:30 am this morning. Fire crews and paramedics treated two adults and four children who were home at the time. All six were transported for evaluation of smoke inhalation and minor cuts and bruises.
The blaze was quickly contained and subsequently extinguished by fire fighters. Although the home sustained significant smoke and fire damage surrounding homes were saved. The Red Cross was contacted to assist the family.
The blaze was quickly contained and subsequently extinguished by fire fighters. Although the home sustained significant smoke and fire damage surrounding homes were saved. The Red Cross was contacted to assist the family.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Fire Fighters recover body from river
Fire fighters recovered a body from the Rio Grande this afternoon in coordination with LPD and BP. A wallet was discovered and turned over to LPD for processing. It appeared that the body was in the water for a few days. Webb county medical examiner was called in to conduct a medical investigation.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Fire claims local meat market
An early morning blaze destroyed a local meat market at the 200 blk of Gustavus. Fire crews battled the fire for several hours until it was extinguished. Fortunatly, residences nearby did not sutsain any damage. No injuries were reported.
City experiences heavy rains and flooded roadways
Torrential downpoors slammed our city in the early morning hours of sunday causing flooded roadways and flooding inseveral sections of town. Lighting struck a residence in the Azteca neighborhood setting on fire. Fire crews responded to emergency calls most of the night rescuing may stranded motorist and others that needed assistance as a result of the storm.
One fatality was recorded when a van with 5 passengers was swept away by currents when attempting to cross a flooded roadway.
Meterologists recorded as much as 8 inches of rain. The flood conditions that followed caused many vehicles becoming stranded on city streets leaving motorists at the mercy of the hazardous conditions.
This creates a dangerous situation especially in flooded, low-lying areas where water currents may sweep victims off their feet. We urge citizens not ignore traffic barricades and other traffic advisories for the sake of their safety.
We would like to encourage citizens to follow these simple tips that may possibly save their lives and the lives of loved ones:
· Nearly 50 percent of all flash flood fatalities nationwide involve vehicles. Saving your life can be as easy as turning your car around when you see water on the road. Never attempt to drive through flooded roadways.
· Even in relatively shallow water, tires can act as flotation devices, lifting up big vehicles and sending them downstream. It takes only two feet of water to float a 3,000-pound car.
· Beware that water covering roadways may hide washed-out bridges or gouged-out roadbeds. If you attempt to drive across, you may not be driving on a road.
· In rainy weather, be alert and stay tuned to local radio or TV.
· If you are in a low-lying area when flooding is occurring, get to higher ground quickly. Be sure to avoid canyons and ravines that can channel swift water.
· Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or streams on foot. It can take as little as six inches of water to knock an adult off his or her feet. Furthermore, water may be flowing more rapidly than it appears.
· Never allow children to play near ditches and storm drains.
· During stormy weather, do not camp or park vehicles along streams or washes.
· Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to see flood dangers.
*Source: Governor’s Division of Emergency Management
If you think you’re in danger, help is only a call away. By dialing 911, rescuers will arrive to assist you during any emergency. As always, the Laredo Fire Dept. remains ready to respond to these types of emergencies as well as others.
One fatality was recorded when a van with 5 passengers was swept away by currents when attempting to cross a flooded roadway.
Meterologists recorded as much as 8 inches of rain. The flood conditions that followed caused many vehicles becoming stranded on city streets leaving motorists at the mercy of the hazardous conditions.
This creates a dangerous situation especially in flooded, low-lying areas where water currents may sweep victims off their feet. We urge citizens not ignore traffic barricades and other traffic advisories for the sake of their safety.
We would like to encourage citizens to follow these simple tips that may possibly save their lives and the lives of loved ones:
· Nearly 50 percent of all flash flood fatalities nationwide involve vehicles. Saving your life can be as easy as turning your car around when you see water on the road. Never attempt to drive through flooded roadways.
· Even in relatively shallow water, tires can act as flotation devices, lifting up big vehicles and sending them downstream. It takes only two feet of water to float a 3,000-pound car.
· Beware that water covering roadways may hide washed-out bridges or gouged-out roadbeds. If you attempt to drive across, you may not be driving on a road.
· In rainy weather, be alert and stay tuned to local radio or TV.
· If you are in a low-lying area when flooding is occurring, get to higher ground quickly. Be sure to avoid canyons and ravines that can channel swift water.
· Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or streams on foot. It can take as little as six inches of water to knock an adult off his or her feet. Furthermore, water may be flowing more rapidly than it appears.
· Never allow children to play near ditches and storm drains.
· During stormy weather, do not camp or park vehicles along streams or washes.
· Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to see flood dangers.
*Source: Governor’s Division of Emergency Management
If you think you’re in danger, help is only a call away. By dialing 911, rescuers will arrive to assist you during any emergency. As always, the Laredo Fire Dept. remains ready to respond to these types of emergencies as well as others.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Two juveniles walk away from rollover
Fire department personnel responded to a reported rollover at the 22oo block of San Luis in South Laredo. The two occupants of the vehicle walked away from the accident with minor injuries. They were however, transported by paramedics to a local hospital for evaluation as a precautionary measure. The vehicle landed in the yard of a residence and nearly impacted the structure.
Hot weather tips
Laredo, TX, June 12, 2007:
As the hot weather season approaches, the Laredo Fire Department wishes to remind citizens of Laredo and surrounding areas to take special precautions and guard against heat related injuries. Heat-related deaths and illness are preventable yet annually many people succumb to extreme heat. Historically, from 1979 to 1999, excessive heat exposure caused 8,015 deaths in the United States. During this period, more people in this country died from extreme heat than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined. In 2001, 300 deaths were caused by excessive heat exposure (Source CDC). Summer weather in our City can reach temperatures in excess of 100 degrees on average. Temperatures are expected to rise in the weeks ahead therefore, heat injury prevention must be emphasized. Preparation is the best way to reduce or prevent heat related injuries.
Here are some tips to keep cool during periods of excessive heat:
Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must work outside, try to do it during the coolest part of the day – usually in the early morning.
Stay indoors as much as possible. If you don't have air conditioning, stay on the lowest floor of a building out of the sun. Use electric fans if you have them. They don't cool the air, but they do help sweat to evaporate, which cools your body.
Drink plenty of water regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty. Your body needs fluids to keep cool. Avoid beverages with caffeine, such as coffee, and alcohol.
Eat smaller meals, but eat more often.
Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and a hat. Light colors reflect heat and sunlight, and help your body maintain normal temperatures.
Don't get too much sun. Sunburn makes the body's job of keeping cool more difficult.
Check on the elderly, children, and those who are ill; all are vulnerable to excessive heat.
Ensure that your pets are provided with shade and adequate water.
There are different types of heat related injuries and listed below are the more serious.
Heat Cramps – Symptoms include painful cramping and spasms of legs, arms and/or abdominal muscles.
Heat Exhaustion – Symptoms include feeling tired, weak and dizzy; headache nausea and possible vomiting. Heavy perspiration; skin feels moist.
Heat Stroke – Symptoms include feeling tired, weak and dizzy, skin feels hot and dry – even under armpits; skin also appears red and flushed. May become delirious and unconscious. This is a life threatening situation! Call 911.
As always, the Laredo Fire Dept. remains ready to these types of emergencies as well as others.
As the hot weather season approaches, the Laredo Fire Department wishes to remind citizens of Laredo and surrounding areas to take special precautions and guard against heat related injuries. Heat-related deaths and illness are preventable yet annually many people succumb to extreme heat. Historically, from 1979 to 1999, excessive heat exposure caused 8,015 deaths in the United States. During this period, more people in this country died from extreme heat than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined. In 2001, 300 deaths were caused by excessive heat exposure (Source CDC). Summer weather in our City can reach temperatures in excess of 100 degrees on average. Temperatures are expected to rise in the weeks ahead therefore, heat injury prevention must be emphasized. Preparation is the best way to reduce or prevent heat related injuries.
Here are some tips to keep cool during periods of excessive heat:
Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must work outside, try to do it during the coolest part of the day – usually in the early morning.
Stay indoors as much as possible. If you don't have air conditioning, stay on the lowest floor of a building out of the sun. Use electric fans if you have them. They don't cool the air, but they do help sweat to evaporate, which cools your body.
Drink plenty of water regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty. Your body needs fluids to keep cool. Avoid beverages with caffeine, such as coffee, and alcohol.
Eat smaller meals, but eat more often.
Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and a hat. Light colors reflect heat and sunlight, and help your body maintain normal temperatures.
Don't get too much sun. Sunburn makes the body's job of keeping cool more difficult.
Check on the elderly, children, and those who are ill; all are vulnerable to excessive heat.
Ensure that your pets are provided with shade and adequate water.
There are different types of heat related injuries and listed below are the more serious.
Heat Cramps – Symptoms include painful cramping and spasms of legs, arms and/or abdominal muscles.
Heat Exhaustion – Symptoms include feeling tired, weak and dizzy; headache nausea and possible vomiting. Heavy perspiration; skin feels moist.
Heat Stroke – Symptoms include feeling tired, weak and dizzy, skin feels hot and dry – even under armpits; skin also appears red and flushed. May become delirious and unconscious. This is a life threatening situation! Call 911.
As always, the Laredo Fire Dept. remains ready to these types of emergencies as well as others.
Monday, June 11, 2007
Afternoon Shooting at Park and San Francisco
Fire crews responded to a reported shooting at the intersection of Park and San Francisco. Fire Fighters and Paramedics arrived to find a male minor shot in the upper side torso. The Patient was alert and responsive at the time of the incident. He was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and further treatment by Laredo Fire dept. paramedics. The incident occured just before 3 pm.
Fire Fighter entrance exam period opens
Laredo, TX, June 11, 2007: The Laredo Fire Department announces that the application period for the firefighter entrance exam is open until June 22, 2007, 5 PM (CST). Applications may be picked up at the Human Resources department located at City Hall, 1110 Houston St. or 618 Del Mar Blvd. Applications will not be accepted after this date.
The exam will be given on Tuesday, July 17, 2007 at the Civic Center Ballroom located at 2400 San Bernardo Ave. Applicants must register from 8:15 – 9:15. The test will be administered promptly thereafter. Please note: Picture I.D. (Valid Texas Drivers License) MUST BE PRESENTED at time of registration.
For more information you may visit the City of Laredo web site at www.ci.laredo.tx.us and select the red icon labeled Firefighter application package.
The exam will be given on Tuesday, July 17, 2007 at the Civic Center Ballroom located at 2400 San Bernardo Ave. Applicants must register from 8:15 – 9:15. The test will be administered promptly thereafter. Please note: Picture I.D. (Valid Texas Drivers License) MUST BE PRESENTED at time of registration.
For more information you may visit the City of Laredo web site at www.ci.laredo.tx.us and select the red icon labeled Firefighter application package.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
LFD offers water safety tips
Laredo, TX, June 5, 2007: The Laredo Fire Department wishes everyone a safe and happy summer. With hot weather on the way, many will seek to cool off in area pools and lake. We would like to offer some water safety tips that will help in keeping everyone safe.
* Learn to swim. The best thing to do to stay safe in and around water is to learn how to swim. Courses are offered for any age.
* Swim in areas supervised by a lifeguard.
* Read and obey all rules and posted signs.
* Don’t allow running or rough play around the water.
* Children or inexperienced swimmers should take precautions, such as wearing a US Cost Guard approved personal flotation device, when around water.
* Before you go down a water slide, get in the right position – face up and feet first.
* NEVER LEAVE CHILDREN OR INFANTS UNATTENDED!!
* Learn CPR.
* Warn your children about playing in canals or other fast moving water (especially after a storm with heavy rains).
* Don’t mix alcohol and swimming. Alcohol impairs your judgment, balance, and coordination. It also affects your swimming and diving skills as well as reduces your body’s ability to stay warm.
Please feel free to contact our office if you should have questions or require more information.
As always if you think your in an emergency, Dial 911 and help will be on the way.
*Sources: American Red Cross, keepkidshealthy.com
* Learn to swim. The best thing to do to stay safe in and around water is to learn how to swim. Courses are offered for any age.
* Swim in areas supervised by a lifeguard.
* Read and obey all rules and posted signs.
* Don’t allow running or rough play around the water.
* Children or inexperienced swimmers should take precautions, such as wearing a US Cost Guard approved personal flotation device, when around water.
* Before you go down a water slide, get in the right position – face up and feet first.
* NEVER LEAVE CHILDREN OR INFANTS UNATTENDED!!
* Learn CPR.
* Warn your children about playing in canals or other fast moving water (especially after a storm with heavy rains).
* Don’t mix alcohol and swimming. Alcohol impairs your judgment, balance, and coordination. It also affects your swimming and diving skills as well as reduces your body’s ability to stay warm.
Please feel free to contact our office if you should have questions or require more information.
As always if you think your in an emergency, Dial 911 and help will be on the way.
*Sources: American Red Cross, keepkidshealthy.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)