Prevention: Fire Safety Kit Distribution

Where?
Libraries in Passaic County, New Jersey

Butler Public Library, Pequannock Library, & Pompton Lakes Library

Why?

Passaic County has one of the highest rates of wildfire risk in the entirety of NJ. This is consistent with Passaic County's geography: mostly forests with suburban communities dispersed throughout thick vegetation. These areas become arid during droughts, leading to a high BUILDUP index (measuring the amount of available biofuel to support a fire). Passaic County will likely continue to suffer wildfires at increasingly alarming rates and severities. Therefore, our team decided this would be an effective place to distribute fire safety kits and plant trees.

Fire Safety Kits

Amount Distributed: 300+

Contents:

 1) The K95 disposable face mask helps filter out smoke and ash. This helps reduce the risk of inhalation injuries and respiratory distress.

2) The alcohol prep pads help sanitize minor wounds or scraps before bandaging, which would help reduce the risk of infection.

3) The burn gel packet helps provide quick relief and protection for minor burns before professional medical care is available.

4) A high-quality whistle that reaches around 120 dB.

5) An informational brochure was developed that tied everything together and explained crucial information on preventing fires.

Why? : Around New Jersey as a whole, many vulnerable tree-dense areas surround residential communities. Many residents in these areas may not know what to do in the case of a fire or even lack essential fire safety resources. Even a few extra minutes spent scrambling for protective gear like a mask amidst a fire can make a significant difference in an emergency.