With holiday travel and winter getaways approaching, the Muscatine Fire Department is reminding residents to take simple precautions that can help prevent injuries and save lives. Whether staying in a hotel, renting an Airbnb, traveling by RV or attending a public event, officials say a few quick checks can make a major difference in an emergency.
Hotel and Motel Safety
Fire officials recommend choosing lodging protected by smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms and fire sprinklers. Guests are encouraged to ask staff what the fire alarm sounds like and, for those who are deaf or hard of hearing, to request rooms equipped with visual or vibrating alerts.
Travelers should review the evacuation plan posted inside the room and count the number of doors between the room and at least two exits — a step that can be critical in low-visibility conditions. Guests should keep their room key beside the bed and use stairs instead of elevators if an alarm sounds, unless directed otherwise by fire crews.
Peer-to-Peer Rentals
For Airbnb- and VRBO-style rentals, the fire department urges visitors to confirm that smoke and CO alarms are installed on every level and in each sleeping area. Guests should check for a posted floor plan, identify two ways out of every room and ensure everyone knows the home’s address along with a designated meeting spot outside.
Officials also advise keeping walkways clear, avoiding overloaded outlets, keeping stovetops free of clutter and ensuring smoking areas are properly set up outdoors with safe disposal containers.
Motorhomes, Campers and RVs
Fire safety becomes especially important in confined spaces like RVs and campers. The department recommends installing and regularly testing smoke alarms, staying present while cooking, and plugging in only one heat-producing device per outlet. Travelers using propane appliances should check for leaks and carry a gas detector.
Residents are also encouraged to practice escape plans, keep portable fire extinguishers on board and maintain safe distances for campfires — at least 25 feet from anything that can burn. Camping heaters should never be left running while occupants are asleep.
Public Assembly Safety
Before entering crowded venues such as concerts, clubs or public events, officials urge people to assess whether the space appears safe. Once inside, visitors should locate all exits, not just the main entrance, and ensure aisles and pathways are unobstructed.
If conditions feel unsafe — including overcrowding, visible smoke or the presence of open flames — the Muscatine Fire Department advises leaving immediately. In an emergency, people should exit quickly and calmly, and once outside, stay out.
Vehicle Fire Response and Prevention
If a vehicle catches fire, drivers are urged to pull over safely, turn off the engine and get all occupants out immediately. Individuals should stay at least 100 feet away and call 911. Returning to a burning vehicle to retrieve belongings is strongly discouraged.
To help prevent vehicle fires, regular maintenance is essential. Officials advise transporting gasoline only in approved containers, keeping propane cylinders out of passenger areas, avoiding parking over dry grass and watching for warning signs such as electrical problems, leaking fluids or sudden temperature spikes.
The Muscatine Fire Department encourages residents with questions about any of these safety guidelines to reach out for assistance.
