During Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 7 to 13, Columbia Shuswap Regional District Fire Services co-ordinator Kenn Mount would like to remind people to make sure their smoke detectors are working.
“Most homes have smoke detectors, but it’s surprising how many people don’t remember to test them regularly to make sure they’re working. If they’re not functioning, they’re not going to do any good if there’s a fire,” says Mount. “The Canadian statistics show that without a working smoke alarm, your chances of not surviving a fire increase by 74 per cent.”
It is the first line of defence, but it’s just as important that all members of the family know what to do when the alarm goes off.
“It’s a good idea to have a family escape plan in case of a fire in your home. Practise the plan and make sure your children understand what they should do if they hear the warning sounds from the smoke detector.
The escape plan should include a meeting point outside the home.”
When you practise your safety plan, make sure you practise using an alternate way to get out of the house in case one exit is blocked.
“Fires can double every 30 seconds so it’s important that everyone knows to stay low to the ground and start working their way toward one of their two ways out.
Practising this as a family is really important since everyone will be better prepared to deal with a fire event at home.”
For more information about making your home fire-safe, please visit the Fire Prevention Canada website to find fire prevention and safety tips and fun short videos for children.