Every year, Fire Prevention Week serves as an important reminder that fire safety is something that should be practiced year-round. In 2025, the campaign continues to emphasize that Fires can start quickly and spread in seconds and every year we stress that fire safety must be practiced year-round.  Preparation, prevention, and knowing what to do can save lives.

            A few tips from the American Trauma Society include:

            Install Smoke Alarms - Place smoke alarms on every level of the home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year;

            Create an Escape Plan - Make a fire escape plan with at least two ways out of each room. Practice it twice a year with everyone in your household;

            Know Your Address - Make sure family members (especially children) can recite your home address in case they need to call 911;

            Keep Essentials Accessible - Store important documents in a fireproof box and ensure fire extinguishers are easy to access;

            Kitchen Safety - Never leave cooking food unattended. Keep flammable items like towels, paper, or curtains away from the stove.

            Heating Safety - Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, and turn them off when leaving the room or going to bed;

            Electrical Safety: Avoid overloading outlets or extension cords. Replace damaged cords right away;

            Candle Safety: Use flameless candles whenever possible. If using real candles, keep them at least one foot away from anything that can catch fire; and if you smoke, do so outside. Never smoke in bed or when drowsy;

            What To Do If There Is a Fire: Stay Low and Go: If there's smoke, get low and crawl under it to your exit;

            Check Doors: Feel closed doors with the back of your hand. If hot, use another way out; and Call 911: Once you're safe outside, call for help and give your address.

            Fire Safety for Children: Teach children how to recognize the sound of a smoke alarm and what to do when they hear it;

            Show kids how to "Stop, Drop, and Roll" if their clothes catch fire; and Keep matches and lighters locked away and out of reach.

            Fire Safety for Older Adults: Ensure pathways are clear and well-lit to make escape easier; Keep glasses, hearing aids, mobility devices, and phones close by at night; and Consider installing bed shakers or strobe light smoke alarms for those who are hard of hearing.

            Fire Safety for Pets: Include pets in your family fire drills so they get used to exits; Keep leashes, carriers, or crates by the door for quick evacuation; Never leave pets alone with lit candles, fireplaces, or space heaters; and Place a pet alert window cling near entrances to let firefighters know how many animals are inside.

            It is also important to value your local volunteer fire companies.  Donate to them, support their events, and don't forget to thank them or give them a tip of the hat to let them know that their contribution to the community is appreciated.