HARRISBURG – This week is the 100th anniversary of Fire Prevention Week. This year’s campaign, “Fire Won’t Wait. Plan Your Escape,” works to educate everyone about simple, but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe from home fires. Everyone needs to be prepared in advance, so that they know what to do when the smoke alarm sound. Given that every home is different, every home fire escape plan will also be different. Make sure your plan meets the needs of all 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, and 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 your household and practice at least once during the day and at night. For more information about fire prevention, go to nfpa.org.
