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Listen to the live interview from 8:50 a.m. with E.S.C.A.P.E.‘s President and founder Firefighter Michael McLeieer on 04/21/2020 on WKZO AM 590 and FM 106.9

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During the spread of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), people are doing what they can to disinfect and keep their homes clean. With a limited supply of particular cleaning products in many communities, people have often concocted their own cleaning solutions and unknowingly have created serious health risks.

With much of the country working from home, this is a good time for you and your family to understand the dangers of mixing household chemicals.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people should routinely clean frequently touched surfaces, such as tables, doorknobs and faucets.

However, with any cleaning product, remember to always follow the instructions on the label and ensure safe storage which includes keeping the product in its intended container and never place combustible products near a heat source.

Be aware and avoid these deadly combinations:

Bleach + vinegar = chlorine gas. Chlorine gas attacks the mucous membranes and can lead to coughing, breathing problems, and painful burning and watery eyes. Chlorine gas and water also combine to make hydrochloric and hypochlorous acids which lead to irritation of the nose and throat and respiratory system.

Bleach + ammonia = chloramine. This can cause shortness of breath and chest pain.

Bleach + rubbing alcohol = chloroform. This is highly toxic. Exposure may lead to dizziness, nausea, loss of consciousness and even death.

Hydrogen peroxide + vinegar = peracetic/peroxyacetic acid. This can be highly corrosive.

For more ways to keep your family safe from household chemicals, check out the safety tips sheet below from the United States Fire Administration.

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E.S.C.A.P.E. Fire Safety reminds you to stay safe when you stay at home Where You Live!



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Here is a link to the live interview at 9:40 am on WKZO AM 590 and FM 106.9 radio.

The COVID-19 Pandemic has and is creating new procedures for community First Responders.

In a statement from Fire Chief Dave Glotzbach, president of the Michigan Association of Fire Chiefs and firefighter Michael McLeieer, president of the Michigan State Firemen’s Association, both say they continue to learn and adjust response procedures in their efforts to protect both citizens and personnel.

The two say they will continue monitoring the situation and make best practice adjustments as they move through this extended duration event.

These changes have many people asking what they should expect when they call 911 asking for assistance or reporting a medical emergency.

First responders say if you do experience the signs and symptoms of COVID-19 such as a dry cough, fever or shortness of breath, please contact your primary care physician and follow their instructions.

If you don’t have a primary care physician or you must call 911, please be accurate and honest so emergency responders can best take care of you, your family and your community.

The Delta Township Fire Department in Eaton County produced a video describing what to expect when you call 911 and how you can help your community.

The Michigan Association of Fire Chiefs and Michigan State Firemen’s Association applaud Michiganders for the great job of staying home and helping to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.  Please continue these efforts so we can focus on the health and safety of our communities.

The two organizations remind people to “Stay Home. Stay Safe. Save Lives”.