This week, we highlight Plano Fire-Rescue’s Explore Plano Challenges. This public safety department serves over 274,000 residents and a 72-mile radius. Plano Fire-Rescue is made up of over 351 sworn men and women personnel and 11 civilian recruits, responding from 13 stations. Aside from fighting fires, the department handles EMS transport, hazardous material response, urban search and rescue, wildland firefighting, prevention, inspection, investigation and much more. Take a pause from Pokémon Go and join us as we Explore Plano this month with the challenges below.
No matter what your age, anyone can feel like a kid again by getting a first-hand look and selfie with some of the gear and vehicles the fire department uses. Snap and share your photos as you check out the fire engines and ambulances at any of the 13 fire stations. Try to include the station number when you share your photos on social media with hashtag #exploreplano. Don’t forget to thank your neighborhood firefighters after your visit!
It’s important to be proactive and prepared for an emergency situation. A few things you can do are to create a fire escape plan for your home and make sure your smoke detectors are working properly. Smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month and batteries should be replaced at least twice a year. If you’re like me, you probably don’t always think about when the last time you changed out the batteries in your smoke alarm. An easy way to remember is to change your smoke detector batteries at the same time you update your clocks to Daylight Savings Time. Share your photos of ways you keep your home safe by using hashtag #exploreplano. Connect with Plano Fire-Rescue on Facebook and Twitter.
Do you know how to perform Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)? At some point you may need to jump into action to help save someone’s life. Each year Plano Fire-Rescue teams respond to approximately 150 cardiac arrests. Plano currently leads the nation in cardiac arrest survival rates due to its well-trained citizens, exemplary hospitals and Plano’s first responders. The Fire-Rescue Department encourages everyone to watch the Pulse Point video and download the free Pulse Point app. This innovative app alerts those who are trained in CPR when someone nearby is experiencing cardiac arrest. The app also tells you where the closest Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is located. Once you have watched the Pulse Point video, call the Community Outreach & Education Office at 972.941.7412 and schedule a time to learn Hands-Only CPR at the Fire Administration office.
Check back next week as we highlight the City of Plano’s Animal Services Department challenges. Challenges include helping us find a furr-ever home for a pet, decorating a kennel window and making a donation to the shelter! As always, share your progress with us on social media with hashtag #exploreplano.