Cochrane Fire Services is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Fire Prevention Week.
Running from October 9-15, this year’s campaign, “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape”, works to educate residents about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves, their family and those around them safe from home fires.
“It’s important for everyone to plan and practice a home fire escape,” says Jeff Avery, Cochrane Fire Prevention Officer. “Residents need to be prepared in advance, so that they know what to do when the smoke alarm sounds.”
Create a fire escape plan:
- Make sure your plan meets the needs of all your family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.
- Smoke alarms should be installed inside every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of your home. Smoke alarms should be interconnected so when one sounds, they all sound.
- Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows open easily.
- Have an outside meeting place a safe distance from your home where everyone should meet.
- Build your plan as a family and then practice your home fire drill at least twice a year with everyone in the household, including guests. Practice at least once during the day and at night.
“Have a plan for everyone in the home,” added Avery. “Children, older adults, and people with disabilities may need assistance to wake up and get out. Make sure that someone will help them to safety!”
Cochrane Fire Services is encouraging residents to embrace the 2022 Fire Prevention Week theme by building and practicing their home escape plans and is offering to come to resident’s homes and monitor home evacuation drills. For more information or to request support, call 403-851-2540.
For more information on Fire Prevention Week, visit www.fpw.org or cochrane.ca/fireprevention.
