the Dangers of Carbon Monoxide

FARGO, N.D. (Jan. 6, 2014) – As temperatures plunge well below zero, the Fargo Fire Department is warning residents about the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO). Normally, warmer weather allows pollutants to rise but in extremely cold weather, like Fargo is currently experiencing, an event known as “temperature inversion” can take place. This causes air pollutants to be trapped near the ground and CO levels to rise. It is also a concern inside homes and businesses, as CO from outside sources such as vented furnaces, space heaters and running automobiles can seep back into basements and sewer lines causing CO levels to build.

 Carbon monoxide is called the “invisible killer” because it›s an invisible, colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. More than 150 people in the Unites States die every year from accidental non-fire related CO poisoning associated with consumer products. 

 The Fargo Fire Department encourages you to have a functioning CO detector on each level of your home and inspect your drain pipes. A dry trap is an avenue for sewer gases and air pollutants to enter your home. If your CO detector alarms, call 9-1-1 to have the fire department investigate.  If anyone in your house experiences nausea, headaches or fatigue in conjunction with your alarm, vacate the building immediately before calling 9-1-1.

2014 Home & Garden Show

welcomes Design on a Dime host to Fargo

The 53nd annual Red River Valley Home & Garden Show, brought to you by Accent Kitchen & Bath, ushers in spring and welcomes HGTV’s Design on a Dime host David Sheinkopf Feb. 21-23. He will present interactive seminars each day of the show covering painting tips and tricks, proportion in your home, decorating with things you already have, and making sure you always have the right tool.

Fargo Fire Department

Responds To Attic Fire in South Fargo

Fargo firefighters responded to a report of a fire on the roof of a house at 1118 8 Ave. S. at 8:20pm on New Year ’s Day. Flames were visible on the roof and eaves of the 2 story residence when fire fighters arrived. Two of five college students renting the house were home at the time of the fire, were alerted by smoke detectors, and were waiting outside when firefighters arrived.

 The main body of fire was in the attic and behind knee walls on the second floor. Firefighters used piercing nozzles to knock down the fire. Fire and smoke damage was moderate, however there is considerable water damage to the residence and contents.

 The occupants were being housed by relatives. The Salvation Army and the Red Cross were called to the scene along with FM Ambulance and the Fargo Police Department. Due to ice and slush build up the Fargo Street Department was called in to clean and sand the street.

 Fire investigators said the fire was caused when a fire was lit in a fireplace that had the chimney blocked off by roofing materials.

Fargo Fire Department encourages homeowners to have their chimneys cleaned and inspected.

Library kicks off new year

with Winter Read-A-Thon

FARGO, N.D. (Jan. 2, 2014) – The Fargo Public Library invites you to chase away the chill of winter with a series of great stories. The library’s annual Winter Read-A-Thon can add mystery, adventure and a little excitement to dreary and cold winter days.

To participate, pick up an official book log at any Fargo Public Library location beginning Monday, Jan. 6. Readers of every age can participate; book logs are available for children, teens and adults. All ages are encouraged to read to earn chances to enter prizes drawings. Book logs are due on or before Friday, Feb. 28 to be eligible for prizes and prize drawings.

For more information regarding the Fargo Public Library and a list of upcoming events, visit the library’s website, www.fargolibrary.org.

North Dakota Gas Prices: A Year in Review

·         North Dakota motorists paid an average of $3.54 per gallon for gas in 2013, making it the least expensive year to fill up since 2010. In 2012 motorists paid an average of $3.61, the most expensive year ever.  The average in 2011 was the second highest on record at $3.57 per gallon, while 2013 holds the rank of third most expense for North Dakota motorists. 

·         The North Dakota average for 2013 was 5 cents higher than the national average of $3.49, fueled in part by record-high gas prices in May.  Gas prices across the upper Midwest were driven higher by a series of refinery outages throughout the region.  The highest state average on record was set May 22, 2013 at $4.23.

·         The averages among the three largest metro areas in North Dakota differed by as much as 17 cents.  Fargo (Cass County) had the lowest annual average at $3.41. Grand Forks (Grand Forks County) motorist paid an average of $3.51, while Bismarck (Burleigh and Morton Counties) paid the highest average of $3.58.

·         The North Dakota average has remained above $3 per gallon for 1,120 consecutive days, yet averages in 12 states dropped below $3 per gallon at some point during the year. The lowest daily statewide average in 2013 was $3.07 on Jan. 18; the lowest national average was $3.18 on Nov. 12.

·         The New Year began with a national average of $3.32, while the North Dakota average was $3.19. The averages on the first day of 2013 were $3.29 and $3.18, respectively.

·         AAA expects motorists will pay slightly less for gasoline in 2014.  Increased refinery capacity and domestic oil production should provide a supply cushion that helps to limit dramatic price spikes caused by supply and demand.