The Signal Mountain Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®), the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years, to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!” The campaign works to educate everyone about the small but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe.
“These numbers show that home fires continue to pose a significant threat to safety,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of outreach and advocacy. In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes from the time the smoke alarm sounds to escape safely. Escape planning and practice can help you make the most of the time you have, giving everyone enough time to get out.
“Situational awareness is a skill people need to use wherever they go,” said Chief Eric Mitchell. “No matter where you are, look for available exits. If the alarm system sounds, take it seriously, and exit the building immediately.”
To find out more about Fire Prevention Week programs and activities in Signal Mountain, please contact the Signal Mountain Fire Department at (423) 886-7075 or at smokedetector@signalmountaintn.gov. For more general information about Fire Prevention Week and home escape planning, visit www.fpw.org.