Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson – WKVI Information Center

Indiana Fire Marshal Issues Annual Safety Alert About Alternative Heating Sources

October 22, 2018October 22, 2018Jacque Ryan

Around this time of year, many people are doing whatever they can to keep cold weather out of their homes. However, for your own safety, there are a few things you should know before you do so.

State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson, reports that during the months of October through December, fire-related deaths increase because of alternative heating sources. He advises Indiana residents to take particular precautions when these sources are utilized in order to ensure safety this season. Continue reading →

State Fire Marshal Issues Safety Reminders, As Cold Weather Continues

January 6, 2018January 5, 2018Michael Gallenberger

As cold weather continues, Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson is once again reminding Hoosiers to be careful with alternative heating sources. He notes that house fires occur more often in winter, and much of that is due to alternative heating. If you need to use a space heater, keep it at least three feet away from other objects, especially anything that’s flammable.

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Turn Clocks Back One Hour Tonight

November 4, 2017November 3, 2017Anita Goodan

Daylight Saving Time ends tomorrow at 2 a.m. local time. Clocks will need to turn back one hour at that time or before you go to bed tonight.

Manual clocks will need to be turned back while some digital devices may have a feature that will observe the time change automatically. Continue reading →

State Fire Marshal Urges Residents Stay Safe While Heating Their Homes

October 30, 2017October 30, 2017Michael Gallenberger

As colder weather approaches, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security reminds residents to stay safe while keeping their homes warm. State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson says alternative heating sources, like space heaters and other devices are a big cause of home fires and fire-related deaths.

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Know The Laws When Celebrating with Fireworks

July 1, 2017June 30, 2017Anita Goodan

Fireworks are one way of celebrating during the Fourth of July season and it’s important that consumers follow the laws.

Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson said state law allows fireworks to be legally ignited from June 29 to July 3 from 5 p.m. local time until two hours after sunset and on July 4 from 10 a.m. to midnight. The use of fireworks is also allowed July 5-July 9 from 5 p.m. until two hours after sunset. Check local ordinances as dates and times may vary.

Fireworks may be used on the user’s property, on property with the owner’s consent or at a locally identified discharge location.

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State Fire Marshal Stresses Fireworks Purchase Safety

June 10, 2017WKVI

Independence Day is less than a month away, and the Indiana State Fire Marshal is reminding Hoosiers about safe and legal ways to purchase fireworks. Continue reading →

Don’t Let Valentine’s Day Spark End with Fire Department’s Arrival

February 13, 2017July 24, 2022WKVI

Soft candlelight and a glowing fireplace can help set a romantic mood for a Valentine’s Day celebration, but it can quickly be dashed if the flames get out of hand and the fire department has to respond.

The U.S. Fire Administration says 84 percent of home heating fires are confined, such as those which occur in the fireplace or chimney. Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson says the fireplace should never be left unattended, and small children or pets need to be supervised around open flames. Continue reading →

State Fire Marshal Urges Proper Tree Disposal

December 27, 2016December 26, 2016WKVI

Christmas tree Christmas is over, and Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson reminds Hoosiers to properly dispose of their live trees.

When a tree starts to drop needles, it means it is too dry and should be removed from the home, according to Greeson. He says dry trees are a fire hazard. The National Fire Prevention Association notes roughly one of every 34 reported home fires that begin with a Christmas tree resulted in death, compared to an average of one death per 142 total reported home fires. Continue reading →