Coral Springs Fire Chief John Whalen Shares Summer Safety Tips, Honors Venezuela Rescue Team

[caption id="attachment_51881" align="alignnone" width="800"] Chief John Whalen  {Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department}.[/caption]

From Fire Chief John Whalen:

As we head into the heart of summer, the Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department remains committed to keeping our community safe, prepared, and informed. From July through September, we want to share several important seasonal safety topics to help you and your family enjoy the season while staying protected.

Seven members of our department and the city have been deployed to Venezuela as part of the Urban Search and Rescue Florida Task Force 2 team, joining more than 160 first responders from across South Florida in search-and-rescue efforts following the devastating earthquakes that struck the country. Please keep them, their families, and all first responders on this mission in your thoughts as they work to help those affected.

Independence Day is one of the most exciting celebrations of the summer, but it’s also one of the busiest days of the year for fire departments across the country due to fireworks-related incidents. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to leave them to the professionals.

We invite you to join us at the city’s Fourth of July Celebration and America’s 250th Birthday at Mullins Park, starting at 4 p.m. Enjoy live music, food, family fun, and a spectacular fireworks show, without the risk.

If you're celebrating at home, remember these firework safety tips:

• Never allow young children to handle fireworks.

• Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby in case of fire.

• Never re-light a "dud."

With families flocking to pools, lakes, and beaches to beat the heat, water safety is more important than ever. Drowning is 100% preventable, yet it remains one of the leading causes of accidental death for young children.

July 25 is National Drowning Prevention Day, a reminder for us all to stay vigilant around water. Visit CoralSprings.gov/WaterSafety for more information and resources.

Drowning prevention tips:

• Always supervise children near water, no exceptions.

• Install and maintain pool barriers and alarms.

• Teach children how to swim early.

• Avoid distractions like phones when supervising swimmers.

• Learn CPR, it can save a life.

As South Florida continues to experience extreme summer temperatures, we've responded to an increase in heat-related illnesses throughout our community. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can develop quickly, especially for those working or exercising outdoors, older adults, and young children. Stay protected by drinking plenty of water, taking frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning, wearing lightweight clothing, and never leaving children or pets in a parked vehicle. If you or someone else begins experiencing dizziness, confusion, nausea, or stops sweating in the heat, move to a cooler location immediately and call 911. A few simple precautions can make all the difference in preventing a life-threatening emergency.

We are now one month into hurricane season. The Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department has completed our preparedness drills and reviewed emergency response plans, but we need your help to ensure every household is ready too.

Hurricane preparation tips:

• Have a fully stocked emergency supply kit with food, water, medications, flashlights, and batteries.

• Prepare your home: trim trees, secure loose outdoor items, and clear gutters.

• Fill your gas tank early and charge all devices.

• Make a communication plan with your family.

For more guidance, visit our hurricane preparedness page.

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and it's a critical reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health. Life can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. The City of Coral Springs offers mental wellness resources. If you or someone you know needs help, please view our resources page. Let's continue to look out for each other.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 26! We’ll be hosting our annual Car Seat Installation Event, where our certified technicians will ensure your child's car seat is installed correctly and safely. Whether you’re a new parent or just want peace of mind, we encourage you to stop by. Our top priority is your child’s safety on the road. Don’t miss this opportunity to get a free safety check.

Stay safe, stay informed, and enjoy your summer.