Home Fire Safety

      October is fire safety month. The kids wanted to visit the local fire station to learn more. We were in for a treat. The local captain and crew took us and another family on a full tour and gave us important tips for fire safety at home.

      The firefighters were very encouraging to all of the children, gave them a full tour of the firehouse and trucks, and invited the children to come back anytime. They were very impressive and professional.

      The tour naturally included instruction on fire safety. The firefighters asked us, "What is the first thing to do in case of a fire or emergency." They were surprised and pleased when all of the children immediately, and in unison, yelled "Call 9-1-1!"

     We asked the firefighters about the most important tips for fire safety at home. The firefighters emphasized that it is important for families to discuss and plan their fire safety strategies. Interestingly their top two things for families to remember is to always have two routes to exit the house, and to have a place to meet once out of the house. The meeting place should be as simple as at the big oak tree, or the mail box.

       Family fire safety tips include:

• Having smoke alarms on every floor and outside all sleeping areas,
• Practice home fire escape plans and routes,
• Safely store and dispose of all smoking materials,
• Take extra care with all hazardous materials including paints, gasoline, and any other flammable materials,
• Practice safe operation of heaters and fire places,
• And make sure home wiring is safe and updated.

      Home fire safety is important to review with your family. Please take time to learn and practice these basic safety principles. Involve your children and you may be surprised how much they enjoy helping. Lastly, stop by and get to know your local firefighters. They are very impressive and very welcoming, and help us all be more safety conscious.