October 8-14 Is National Fire Prevention Week

Since 1922, the second week of October has been designated as Fire Prevention Week (FPW). The campaign is sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), who also sets the FPW theme each year.

This year’s theme is “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out!”. It was inspired by the alarming results of a survey conducted by the NFPA which showed that about 75 percent of Americans have created a home fire escape plan, but less than half of them have ever practiced their plans. NFPA recommends you map out detailed escape routes, as well as practice them with your family at least twice a year.

During FPW, there are many ways to spread fire safety awareness. On NFPA’s website, you can find a variety of materials to teach fire safety to students, the elderly, and others in your community. It also shares simple steps to promote FPW through social media and other outlets.

Fire Prevention Week is the perfect time to discuss fire safety with your family. Follow these guidelines for creating a home fire escape plan:

• Draw a map of your home using the NFPA grid. Mark two exits from each room.
• Practice your home fire drill twice a year – one at night and one during the day.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
• Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
• Close doors behind you as you exit your home during a fire – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
• Once you get outside, stay outside – never go back inside a burning building.

As it gets colder across the country, it’s also important to be aware of heating fire safety. Check out our home heating safety tips. For professional smoke remediation or fire damage repair, contact your local PuroClean office.