FIRE WON ’ T WAIT. PLAN YOUR ESCAPE.
By: Orange County Communications Department
This year is the 100th anniversary of Fire Prevention Week. One way our local department assists citizens in fire escape planning by bringing the fire safety house to community events across the county. The safety house can be safely filled with smoke and occupants can crawl to safety. Additionally, the safety house offers simulated 911 calls and smoke detector activation. This simulation is very important for youth to know what to do in emergencies. Assistant Chief and Fire Marshal, Mike Throckmorton said, “ Increasingly, people are dying at home in a fire. Seventy - four percent of fires are occurring in the home and are more likely to be serious than in previous years. ” Throckmorton also noted that most fires are accidental either due to human error, equipment malfunction, or not maintaining appliances. The tips below will help you be prepared in the event of a fire.
Make sure your home escape 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 (2) 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.
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.
For more fire safety information, check out the State Fire Marshal ’ s website as well as the National Fire Protection Association website.
Pictured are images from the Fire Safety House at community events.
Page 9 | October, 2022
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