Dear Massachusetts Retailer,

The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services (DFS) is spearheading a public education effort to raise awareness of potential fire hazards this winter as more people turn to alternative heating sources.  This effort, called Keep Warm, Keep Safe, will launch in mid-November, and will include television and radio public service announcements, printed materials in several languages, and a grassroots outreach effort led by local fire departments.

As part of this effort, DFS staff has begun distributing winter heating safety materials across the state at the Senior Benefits Expo, the Low Income Heating Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) conferences, and other regional events.  In addition, a Keep Warm, Keep Safe Tool Kit is being developed that will be distributed to all local fire departments as well as other government agencies and the private sector, especially to organizations that provide fuel assistance.  This kit will include creative materials, customizable press releases, and an educational Powerpoint presentation.

I hope that you will participate in the Keep Warm, Keep Safe campaign to help reach the general public with this important public safety message.  Some of the ways in which you could partner with the Keep Warm, Keep Safe campaign may include:

Ø      Displaying a Keep Warm, Keep Safe banner and/or educational materials near space heaters, pellet stoves, woodstoves, fireplaces and other alternative heating equipment at point of sale or in visible parts of your store,

Ø      Stuffing bags with educational flyers,

Ø      Inviting the local fire department to participate in your in-store clinics or demonstrations.

Thank you for your consideration.  I look forward to your participation in the Keep Warm, Keep Safe campaign.  

Sincerely,

Stephen D. Coan

State Fire Marshal