David Decker
Firefighting Expert
Certifications & Organizations
- Certified Firefighter
- Certified Paramedic
- Certified Fire Inspector
- Certified Fire Investigator
- Certified Fire Instructor
Favorite Piece of Advice
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Co-authored Articles (14)
How to
Do a Fireman's Carry
The Fireman's Carry technique used to be a common way for firefighters to carry someone from danger but it's no longer used in that scenario because it exposes the victim's airway to smoke. However, this method is still ...
An Easy Guide for Operating a Fire Extinguisher
How to properly use an extinguisher with the PASS methodKnowing how to use a fire extinguisher could save lives in an emergency. The key to putting out a fire with an extinguisher is to use the PASS strategy: Pull, Aim,...
Why Is Your First Alert Smoke Alarm Beeping/Chirping?
Learn how to get your smoke detector to stop chirping Do you know the variations of beeps of a First Alert smoke alarm? Beeps sound different depending on the situation, and this wikiHow guide goes over that difference a...
How to
Put Out a Grease Fire
Grease fires are caused by cooking oil that becomes too hot. It only takes minutes for an unattended pot of oil to catch fire, so never turn your back on it! If a grease fire does erupt on your stove, turn off the heat r...
How to Extinguish Electrical Fires
The best ways to exhaust a flame caused by electrical issues Electrical fires can happen at any time and can be caused by a wide range of problems, including faulty wiring or overloaded appliances. If you see an electric...
How to
Play the I Spy Game
I spy is a fun and family-friendly guessing game that can be played by children of almost any age. Because it’s a call and response game, you don’t need any tools, accessories, cards, or boards to play, meaning you c...
How to Fix a Beeping Fire Alarm: Low Battery & More
Why your fire alarm is beeping and how to stop it Is your fire alarm chirping or beeping? If you're absolutely positive that there isn't a fire, there are easy ways to make it stop beeping. This wikiHow article will teac...
How to Test a Smoke Alarm (Plus Other Fire Safety Tips)
Keep your family safe by testing your smoke detectors regularly Having a working smoke detector is extremely important to keep your family safe in the case of a fire. Make sure your smoke alarm is functioning properly by...
8 Common Reasons Your Smoke Alarm Goes Off Without Smoke
Learn why your smoke alarm is sounding a false alarm and how to fix itYou’re going about your day when your smoke alarm randomly goes off. While it may be annoying, it’s not uncommon! Smoke alarms can give a false a...
How to
Use a Fire Blanket
Fire blankets are nonflammable safety items that can fight temperatures up to .. 18 January 2024. They smother small fires by not allowing any oxygen in to fuel the flames. Due to its simplicity, a fire blanket may be mo...
How to Safely Escape a House Fire or Wildfire
Key steps to evacuating safely if there's a fireBeing prepared and having a plan in mind are the simplest ways to stay safe in the event of a fire emergency. To prepare for a house or building fire, it’s essential to k...
How to
Put Out a Gas Fire
Natural gas fires can be caused by things like gas appliances or by a gas leak that catches a spark and lights on fire. These types of fires are emergencies and you need to contact the proper authorities in order to put ...
How to
Keep Safe During a House Fire
Though you may not think you'll ever fall victim to a house fire, it's better to be prepared and know what to do to stay safe. If a fire starts in your home, your first priority should be to get yourself and your family ...
How to
Prevent a Kitchen Fire
Cooking fires are the chief cause of home fires and injuries. Take precautions before and while you cook, such as cleaning your stovetop regularly, watching cooking food carefully, and moving any flammable objects away f...