AN IMPORTANT NOTICE FROM THE HAINESPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT, AND HAINESPORT TOWNSHIP OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT.

Both the Hainesport Fire Department and the Hainesport Township Office of Emergency Management would like to make our residential and commercial property owners aware of the serious consequences of mulch fires. Recently, several homes suffered extensive damage due to fires that were started in the landscape mulch located adjacent to their house. In most cases, these fires will smolder unnoticed for an extended period before flames become visible, which can then result in extensive damage to your property. Lawn clippings and decorative ground materials may also contribute to the possibility of fire. In order to avoid this potentially life-threatening event, you are encouraged to:

1. Designate a smoking area where no combustible materials are permitted.
2. Do not discard any type of lighted smoking material in the vicinity of landscape mulch or other combustible material
3. Make sure that you have a metal container filled with sand or water for extinguishing any smoking materials within this designated area.
4. Should you notice smoke coming from your garden or a neighbor’s garden immediately notify the fire department by dialing 9-1-1.

Should you have any questions regarding this issue, please contact Edward Ruggiano, Fire Official, at 609-267-2730 extension 115