Pagosa Fire Protection District

10/19/2026

When was the last time you tested your smoke alarms?

If you can't remember, today is a great day to do it!

Test smoke alarms monthly.
Make sure you have smoke alarms inside bedrooms, outside sleeping areas (halls), and on every level of your home.
Replace alarms according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Never disable a smoke alarm because of nuisance alarms.

Smoke alarms provide an early warning that can give you and your family time to escape.

Test your alarms. Check your batteries.

10/16/2026

Stand by your pan!

Cooking is one of the leading causes of home fires. A few simple habits can help keep your kitchen and your family safe.

Never leave cooking unattended.
Keep anything that can catch fire away from your stovetop.
Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove.
Keep a lid nearby when cooking on the stovetop.
If a small grease fire starts, never use water. Turn off the heat if it is safe to do so and carefully cover the pan with a lid.

Remember, when you leave the kitchen, turn off the stove.

10/14/2026

Would you know how to use a fire extinguisher?

Fire extinguishers can help stop a small fire from becoming a big one - but only if you're comfortable using one and the fire is small and contained.

Always make sure you have a clear escape route behind you. If the fire is spreading, producing heavy smoke, or you aren't comfortable using a fire extinguisher, get out and call 9-1-1.

Your saefty comes first!

10/12/2026

Fall is here! Is your home ready?

As the temperatures start to drop and we spend more time indoors, it is a great time to take a few minutes to do a quick safety check around your home.

Before the colder weather settles in:
Have your heating system inspected and serviced as needed.
If you have a wood stove or fireplace, make sure your chimney is clean and ready for the season.
Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Check cords and outlets for damage or signs of overheating.
Make sure your fire extinguisher is accessible and ready to use.

A little preparation now can help keep your family safe all season long.

10/10/2026

As Fire Prevention Week comes to a close, Pagosa Fire Protection District would like to thank our community for taking the time to learn, prepare, and help keep our homes and families safe!

This year's theme, "Charging into Fire Safety: Safe Charging is a Superpower," reminds us that everyday choices can make a big difference in preventing fires and keeping our families safe.

Use the charger and cord designed for your device.
Charge on hard, flat surfaces - not beds, pillows, or couches.
Keep devices away from excessive heat.
Never use damaged batteries or charging cords.
Follow manufacturer charging instructions.

Remember to test your smoke alarms monthly and practice your home fire escape plan!

Fire Prevention Week may be over, but fire safety is a year-round responsibility. Thank you for helping keep our community safe!

10/09/2026

Unplug your device when it is fully charged. Leaving it plugged in longer than needed can increase heat and stress on the battery.

10/08/2026

Stop using your device right away if the battery smells strange, is warm to the touch, makes popping noises, changes in shape or color, or if you see smoke. If it is safe, move the device away from anything that can catch fire. A damaged battery can overheat and start a fire.

10/07/2026

Charge on a hard, flat surface like a table, desk, or floor. Beds, couches, and pillows can trap heat and block airflow, which can cause a battery to overheat.

10/07/2026

10/06/2026

Use the cord and charger that came with your device or ones approved by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.