Local businesses train employees in safety

One local plant took steps this week to make sure fire safety is a top priority for their employees.

Clark Pulley Industries, Inc. hosted a fire extinguisher class this past Tuesday at their plant in the Russellville Industrial Park.

Firefighters with the Russellville Fire Department conducted the class, which helped teach employees the proper way to use a fire extinguisher in the event of a fire.

According to Clark Pulley president Terry Moore, fire safety training is an annual event for the company’s employees.

“Many of our employees have been here at least 15 years, so they know what to do in most situations,” Moore said. “Because of their efficiency, we don’t have many issues here, but it is always important to be prepared.”

After learning how a fire extinguisher works, firefighters started a small, controlled fire in an open area outside of the plant and let each employee practice putting out the fire with an extinguisher.

“We are just appreciative to the Russellville Fire Department for coming out every year to help us with this class,” Moore said. “Fire safety is important here and they are always good to help.”

Russellville Fire Chief Joe Mansell said that while the fire department does not encourage anyone to try to fight a fire by themselves, it is still very important for people to know how to use a fire extinguisher in case they need to.

“We always want to stress that getting out of a house or business that is burning is the first thing people should do,” Mansell said, “but we also understand that there are small fires that can be put out quickly by a fire extinguisher before it can grow into a bigger fire.”

The RFD will be conducting similar classes as well as classes on life-saving procedures such as CPR throughout the month of October. Classes will be held at Southwood Gardens Apartments for the Elderly, Little Tigers Preschool and Burns Nursing Home.

Mansell added that the RFD is more than glad to teach these classes and other Russellville businesses that would like the RFD to teach a fire extinguisher class or a life-saving class for their employees should call the station at 256-332-8761.