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Know the Water, Know Your Limits, Wear a Lifejacket
Know the Water: Water in the Green and White Rivers averages 50 degrees or below, even in the summer months. Cold water takes the heat out of the body 32 times faster than cold air, and even quicker if you are exerting yourself through physical exercise such as swimming. When you’re cold, you won’t think as quickly, your muscles won’t work as well, and you can start to panic. In addition to the cold, the speed and current of our rivers, plus debris floating or hidden in the water can cause problems. Fast moving water can press a swimmer or boat against a log jam or other obstacle with such force that it may trap or pin them there. Large rocks and logs can tip over rafts, canoes and kayaks.
Know Your Limits: Watch out for the dangerous “too’s” – too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity.
The VRFA recommends wearing a life jacket while swimming anywhere without lifeguards. Be sure the life jacket fits snugly and is approved for the type of water activity of the wearer.
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| VRFA Offers Free Hands-On Fire Extinguisher Training |
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The VRFA is offering free hand-on fire extinguisher training on June 4 at our Headquarters Station 31 and July 17 at Station 35 in the GSA complex. Participants will learn how to select and properly maintain a portable fire extinguisher, as well as how to extinguish small fires safely. A live fire demonstration will allow students hands-on practice. Businesses and residents of Algona, Auburn or Pacific are welcome to attend. For class times and registration information, click here.
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| New Residential Carbon Monoxide Alarm Requirements |
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As of January 1, 2013, carbon monoxide alarms are required in all residential dwelling units. Read more on the requirements and carbon monoxide poisoning prevention here.
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| VRFA Awards Night Honors Outstanding Efforts |
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The Valley Regional Fire Authority honored several of their members for their outstanding efforts during 2012 at their annual Awards Banquet held Friday, Feb, 22. Firefighter First Class Rob Allen received the Firefighter of the Year award, Captain Paul Carolan was honored as Fire Officer of the year and several other VRFA Staff members were recognized. To read the full press release, click here.
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| First Aid Training Available Monthly at VRFA |
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Do you need a current First Aid and CPR card for your workplace? A six-hour First Aid and CPR course is available the third Saturday of each month (excluding July, August and December), from 8:30 - 3:00 at Station 31. There is a $50 fee for this class and pre-registration is required.
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| Sign up for a CPR Class |
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CPR can increase the chances of survival significantly when started immediately by a bystander. The Valley Regional Fire Authority offers adult, child and infant CPR training on the first Wednesday of each month (excluding July, August and December), from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. at the headquarters, station 31. There is a $20 fee for this class and pre-registration is required. Visit the Community Programs page on our website for more information and the registration form.
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Family Safety
Learn tips for keeping you and your family safe. |
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Kids Zone
Visit for fun ways to learn about safety. |
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Contractor's Corner
Click here for new construction and inspection guidelines. |
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Community Programs
View classes and programs offered by the VRFA. |
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