Prevention & Safety

Every second counts in an emergency! Reflective address signs help first responders find your home faster. The 6-by-18-inch signs mount easily on a mailbox post and display your address on both sides.

We will even install it for you. View our online order form to learn more, see pricing, and place your order.

Grill fires cause serious damage in residential communities every year. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, about 6,500 grill fires happen each year, resulting in nearly $27 million in losses.

Ohio Fire Code prohibits the use of charcoal grills and other open-flame cooking devices on balconies and decks in multifamily buildings larger than a duplex. These devices also cannot be used within 10 feet of any structure, such as a wall, overhang, fence, railing, or overhead deck.

Here is what you need to know:

• This rule applies to multifamily buildings larger than a duplex.

• Single-family and two-family homes are not affected.

• Propane grills follow the same rules if the fuel container is larger than one pound. Most standard gas grills use a 20-pound propane tank.

What is a Knox Box?
A Knox Box is a secure emergency access system for homes and businesses. It allows firefighters and paramedics to enter a building quickly without forcing entry, saving time and preventing damage.

How do I order one?
For a Residential Knox Box:

1. Visit the Knox Box website, click Start Here, and select Washington Township Fire Department, Centerville as your local fire department.

2. Select the Knox Home Box and add it to your cart.

3. Enter your installation address and complete your purchase.

4. When you receive your Knox Box, contact the Washington Township Fire Department at 937-433-3083 to schedule a time to have your keys locked in the box.

For a Commercial Knox Box:

1. Visit the Knox Box website and follow the above instructions. The cost varies depending on the selection of the Knox Box.

2. Contact our Fire Marshal at 937-433-3083 with any questions.

Installation Tips:

• Install the Knox Box at the front entrance of your home or business.

• If you change or rekey your locks, notify the Washington Township Fire Department at 937-433-0383 so we can update the key in your box.

In an emergency, every second matters. RapidSOS is a free platform that connects your personal health information directly to 911 and first responders, so they arrive prepared to help you.

You can get started by creating a free Emergency Health Profile. Your profile gives first responders the critical health information they need to care for you in a medical emergency. It takes just a few minutes and could make a difference for you or a loved one.

Click here to find a list of frequently asked questions and create your profile.

Open fires, recreational fires, and portable outdoor fireplaces cause serious damage to homes every year. The 2017 Ohio Fire Code sets the rules for safe outdoor burning in our community. Open burning is never allowed during air pollution warnings, advisories, alerts, or burn bans.

Recreational Fires Must Follow These Rules:

• No larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height

• Supervised at all times by someone 18 years or older

• Burning only clean, dry wood — no trash or yard waste

• Located at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material, including wood or vinyl fences

• Contained within a pit, fire ring, or commercial fire pit

• Have a fire extinguisher or garden hose nearby at all times

Starting and Extinguishing Your Fire Safely:

• Use only fireplace matches or a propane lighter to start your fire

• Avoid starting a fire during strong winds or dry conditions

• When finished, fully extinguish all hot coals with a hose or bucket of water

• Wait at least 24 hours before disposing of ash or coals — never place them in a garbage container until you are certain they are completely out

Unattended or unsafe fires must be extinguished immediately. Contact our Community Risk Reduction Division with any questions about open burning.

Smoke alarms have come a long way. Today, they can be battery-powered or hard-wired, stand-alone or interconnected, and use photoelectric, ionization, or dual technology. With so many options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. The U.S. Fire Administration shares information to help you choose a smoke alarm.

Smoke Alarm Placement

• Install smoke alarms on every floor level

• Place one inside every sleeping room

• Place one outside every sleeping area

• Choose alarms that are wired and interconnected, or wireless units that communicate with each other so that when one sounds, they all sound

Smoke Alarm Maintenance

• Test alarms every month

• Replace batteries every six months

• Vacuum dust from alarms once a year

• Replace all smoke alarms every 10 years

During a medical emergency, every second counts. Help our crews respond quickly and effectively by making sure your address is clearly displayed and by following these Vial of Life instructions:

1. Fill out the Vial of Life form.

• Print and complete the Vial of Life form (pdf, 70KB) or pick one up at Fire Headquarters, 8320 McEwen Road. Answer all questions that apply to you.

• Update your information every three months, or any time your medical history or medications change.

• The form can be saved and stored on your computer so that information is easily updated.

• All information is confidential. We will never disclose or share your healthcare information to those not directly involved in your medical care at our time of service.

2. Print and attach this decal (pdf, 454KB) to the front of a plastic bag.

• Place the completed Vial of Life form in a resealable plastic bag and attach the decal to the front of the bag.

• Consider adding the following items to the bag:

• Photo of yourself (assures proper identification if you are home alone)

• Copy of your Do Not Resuscitate Orders (DNR) or Living Will Declaration

• Copy of your Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare

3. Place the bag on your refrigerator door.

• Securely tape the plastic bag to the front of your refrigerator door.

4. Place the second decal on your front door.

• Place the decal on the front door (storm door, if possible) so it can easily be seen by anyone responding to an emergency.