WCBC

October 17th, 2016 by WCBC Radio

Once again the Office of the State Fire Marshal is partnering with the Maryland State Firemen’s Association and Maryland Fire Chief’s Association to request all fire and rescue departments promote the testing and installation of working smoke alarms in the State. 

          October 22-23, 2016 has been scheduled as the Statewide Community Risk Reduction weekend with participation from many fire departments across the state. This program has been designed as a through canvassing effort to provide fire safety education and 10 year long-life battery operated smoke alarms for the communities we so proudly serve.

          Working smoke alarms can mean the difference between life and death. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), nearly 70% of fire deaths result from fires in homes with non-working smoke alarms or no smoke alarms at all.

          Our goal is to ensure that citizens understand the importance and value of fire safety in their lives and to help protect their quality of life by checking and/or installing new smoke alarms as needed. Chances of surviving a fire in your home are increased by 50% when working smoke alarms are activated during a fire. The early notification of these devices provides a greater opportunity to escape toxic gases and carbon monoxide, which are also known as, the effects of fire.

          During the smoke alarm installation program, participating local fire department members will spread throughout areas within their local communities in an effort to promote this life saving effort. No fire safety program is complete without having a fire escape plan. The entire family should plan and practice their escape plan together at least twice a year. Know two ways out and have a defined meeting place outside. Additionally, it is imperative to practice "Close The Door" safety.  A closed door can provide the extra needed time to survive a fire inside your home.  A closed door effectively blocks smoke, excessive heat and toxic gases from entering a room for an extended period.  Always close the door when sleeping, most fatal fires occur between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. when you should feel safe in your bed.