Middlesex County Fire Prevention & Protection Association

10/07/2026

It's Fire Prevention Week! This week and throughout the month, fire prevention professionals across Middlesex County are taking fire safety into the community!

This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” With lithium-ion batteries powering everything from phones and laptops to e-bikes, scooters, tools and other everyday devices, knowing how to use and charge them safely is more important than ever.

Throughout the week, Fire Prevention Bureaus and Fire Departments across the county will be visiting schools, hosting community open houses, conducting fire safety programs, meeting with residents, and participating in a variety of events to help keep our communities safe.

Fire Prevention Week is a great reminder that fire safety starts before the fire ever happens. Take a moment this week to learn something new, talk about fire safety with your family, and connect with your local fire prevention officials.

09/11/2026

September 11, 2001, forever changed our nation.

That morning, 343 FDNY firefighters, 23 NYPD officers, and 37 Port Authority Police officers answered the call of duty. They reported to work expecting it to be another day never knowing that they would make the ultimate sacrifice and never return home to their loved ones.

We remember the thousands of civilians who lost their lives that day who were simply going to work, traveling, or living their everyday lives. We also remember the first responders, survivors, recovery workers, and others who continue to face serious illnesses connected to the attacks and the rescue, recovery, and cleanup efforts.

The consequences of September 11 continue to affect lives more than two decades later.

Today, we honor every life lost, every family forever changed, and every person who continues to carry the physical and emotional scars of that day.

Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. We will never forget. 🇺🇸

09/01/2026

HVAC RECALL ALERT

A nationwide recall has been issued for certain Airedale SchoolMate and ClassMate HVAC units. There has been a few documented incidents in New Jersey involving these.

The ventilation fan motor can short-circuit if water reaches the circuit board, creating a fire hazard. The recall affects more than 6,000 units nationwide.

Consumers should stop using the recalled heat pumps immediately and contact Modine Manufacturing Company for written instructions to unplug the recalled ventilation fan or to switch the internal disconnect in the fan to the “off” position. Consumers should contact their Modine distributor to arr...

08/21/2026

Going viral isn’t worth getting burned!

🔥Friday Fire Safety Tip🔥

Not everything trend is worth trying so think before you post!

We’ve all seen the latest viral trends and challenges popping up on social media but when those trends involve fire, flames, flammable liquids, heating objects, or intentionally creating sparks, there is nothing entertaining about the potential consequences.

Recent viral challenges have involved people attempting to breathe fire, light objects on fire, create flames with flammable products, or intentionally cause sparks and fires. These aren't harmless stunts. Fire can spread faster than you can react, and a few seconds can result in severe burns, permanent scarring, serious injuries, or even death.

This isn't just a warning from us. Medical reports have documented serious burn injuries associated with social-media challenges, including burns requiring significant medical treatment.

Our message is simple:
- If a TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, or other social-media challenge involves fire or intentionally creating a dangerous situation.. don't do it.
- Don't assume it's safe because someone else did it on video.
- Don't assume you can control a flame just because it looks controlled on screen.
- And most importantly, don't risk a trip to the emergency room just to get a few likes, views, or followers.

Going viral isn't worth getting burned.

East Brunswick Independent Fire Company
Brookview Volunteer Fire Company
Old Bridge Volunteer Fire Department

08/11/2026

Did you know?

Some newer smoke alarms come with a sealed, 10-year battery! That means there’s no need to change the battery every year. The battery is built into the alarm and is designed to last for up to 10 years. But remember… “10-year battery” does NOT mean “10 years without checking it!”

A few important tips:
✔ Test your smoke alarms EVERY MONTH by pressing the test button.
✔ Keep the alarm clean and free of dust and debris.
✔ Check the date on the back of the alarm. Smoke alarms should be replaced when they reach 10 years old.. even if they still appear to be working.
✔ Make sure you are using a UL listed smoke alarm
✔ Never remove or disable a smoke alarm because of nuisance alarms. Address the cause and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Remember: While you may not have to change the battery anymore, you still need to make sure your smoke alarm works! TEST IT ONCE A MONTH. A few seconds could make a life-saving difference.

08/06/2026

🚨 PRODUCT RECALL ALERT 🚨

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced a recall of approximately 178,000 OCTROT heated blankets, sherpa blankets, and heated throws sold on Amazon between August 2021 and December 2025 due to a fire and burn hazard. The electrical cord can detach, causing the blanket to spark, smoke, melt, or catch fire. If you purchased an OCTROT heated blanket during this time period, stop using it immediately and check to see if your model is part of the recall. Never ignore signs of overheating, unusual odors, or damaged electrical cords.

Fire safety starts with staying informed. Please share this post to help keep your family, friends, and neighbors safe!

Consumers should stop using the recalled throws and blankets immediately and contact OCTROT for a full refund. Consumers will be asked to destroy the throws and blankets by unplugging the electrical cord and cutting it in half, and to send a photo of the destroyed product, showing the cut electrical...

07/22/2026

Continuing education is essential to staying current and serving our communities effectively.

Last week, the Middlesex County Fire Prevention & Protection Association (MCFPPA) ran a class presented by the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety, where code officials from across Middlesex County strengthened their understanding of administrative codes.

A special thank you to Chief Mullen and the Perth Amboy Fire Department for graciously hosting, and to Goodfellas Pizza for providing a delicious lunch for all who attended. Your support helped make this training a success!

06/18/2026

At our June Association meeting, we were honored to present a formal proclamation recognizing Rich Mikutsky for his eight years of distinguished service as Director of the Division of Fire Safety.

During his tenure, Rich demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing fire safety throughout New Jersey. His leadership, dedication to the enforcement and continued development of the Uniform Fire Code, and steadfast support of fire officials, inspectors, investigators, and fire prevention professionals have left a lasting impact on the fire service and the communities we proudly serve.

In recognition of his exceptional leadership and enduring contributions to the fire service, the Association was proud to bestow Rich honorary membership. This recognition reflects our appreciation for his continued support of our mission and the countless ways he has strengthened the fire prevention community throughout his career.

On behalf of our Executive Board and membership, we extend our sincere gratitude for his years of dedicated service and wish him continued success in all future endeavors.

Congratulations Rich and thank you for your commitment to the fire service and to the safety of the citizens of New Jersey!

NJFireSafety

06/17/2026

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has officially unveiled the theme for Fire Prevention Week 2026:

"Charge Into Fire Safety™. Safe Charging Is a Superpower."

Fire Prevention Week will be observed October 4–10, 2026, and will shine a spotlight on lithium-ion battery safety and the simple charging practices that can help prevent fires before they start.

From cell phones and tablets to e-bikes, power tools, and other rechargeable devices, lithium-ion batteries are part of our everyday lives. This year's campaign encourages everyone to develop safe charging habits, use approved charging equipment, and recognize potential warning signs of battery problems.

05/26/2026

The Unofficial Start of Summer is Here!

With the sun FINALLY here and warmer weather arriving, backyard BBQs, fire pits, pool days, and outdoor gatherings are about to be in full swing. As you kick off summer, remember to keep fire safety in mind while enjoying the season.

Summer Fire Safety Reminders:
• Never leave grills unattended
• Keep grills and fire pits away from homes, fences, and anything combustible
• Properly dispose of charcoal ashes in a metal container
• Keep kids away from hot grills and cooking areas
• Stay hydrated and avoid overloading outlets with fans and outdoor equipment

Have fun, stay safe, and enjoy the unofficial start of summer!☀️🇺🇸