Housing shortage

As a person who serves those in need, I am writing this letter for those that work in AVCP Housing who are there to serve those in need of housing.

Hooper Bay is the largest village along the coast of Alaska, and there is a serious need for housing. There may be 3 or 4 families that live in one house, lumber is so expensive to buy and employment is hard to find for those who need jobs. Over the summer only two houses were built, I wish you guys would build more houses here.

I know there are services that some people do not know about that can help those in need. I want you guys to get some people out here and explain or introduce some services that they do not know about. Hooper Bay with over a thousand people needs more housing! Seriously in need.

Agnes R. Carl
Hooper Bay, AK

10 Holiday Cooking Safety Tips from Red Cross

Cooking is leading cause of home fires. Smoke alarms and other precautions can help prevent them.

Millions of people will gather for Thanksgiving to enjoy time with loved ones and a delicious holiday dinner. With cooking being the number one cause of home fires, the American Red Cross recommends that everyone follow these fire safety steps:

Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year if your smoke alarm requires it.

Don’t wear loose clothing or sleeves that dangle while cooking.

If you are frying, grilling or broiling food, never leave it unattended – stay in the kitchen. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.

If you’re simmering, baking, roasting or broiling food, check it regularly.

Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove or oven is on.

Keep kids and pets away from the cooking area. Make them stay at least three feet away from the stove.

Keep anything that can catch fire – pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, towels or curtains – away from your stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.

Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.

Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.

Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen. Contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.

Bonus Tip

The Red Cross First Aid App provides expert advice for common mishaps or emergencies including cuts, burns and what to do if someone is choking. Download the app for free in your app store or text GETFIRST to 90999.

Red Cross of Alaska

Gas-fueled turkey fryer safety

The Office of the Alaska State Fire Marshal agrees with the National Fire Protection Association in discouraging the use of outdoor gas-fueled turkey fryers that cook the turkey in hot oil. The use of deep fat turkey fryers can lead to devastating burns, other injuries, and the destruction of property. However, if you use a gas-fueled turkey fryer, the Office of the Alaska State Fire Marshal urges you to use extreme caution. Fire is everyone’s fight.

Michael Warzewick
Office of the Alaska State Fire Marshal