Published: October 09, 2008 10:44 pm      

Students learn fire prevention with Edmond Fire Department

EDMOND — This week and next, elementary school students in Edmond are being treated to skits performed by Edmond Fire Department that are both entertaining and educational in observance of National Fire Prevention Week.

This year the theme is "Prevent Home Fires," and the observance began October 5 and will end October 11. But because Edmond is such a large city, Edmond Fire Major Kelly Lewis said that Edmond Fire Department will hold activities throughout the month.

The skits follow a game show theme, and are interactive.

Children are taught basic fire safety skills, including Stop, Drop and Roll, how to use 911, and to crawl under smoke. Also stressed is the practice of having a twice yearly exit drill at home, with students taught how to make a safe exit and meet up with their family members outside.

In Edmond, residents have kept themselves safe.

Lewis said there has not been a fire fatality in a residential structure in several years.

And in order to prevent tragedy, Lewis offered a few tips.

He said families should talk about their own escape plans, designate an outside meeting place and practice that plan at least twice a year.

He also stressed the need for smoke alarms.

"What we want to remind folks about most is to have working smoke alarms in their homes," he said. "Edmond residents can call us and we will install one for you free of charge."

He said batteries should be checked at least once a month and changed once a year.

For more information about the smoke alarm installation program, call the Edmond Fire Department at 216-7303.

THE DETAILS

what you need to know

-According to the latest research from NFPA, more than 2,500 people died in home fires in the United States in 2006, and 12,500 were injured. Fire departments responded to 396,000 home fires, which accounted for 80% of civilian deaths and 76% of injuries that year.

Do you know how to keep your home safe from fire hazards? Reviewing the following information and taking action can help you “Prevent Home Fires” during Fire Prevention Week and year-round.

Cooking: Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period time, turn off the stove.

Heating: Keep all things that can burn, such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.

Electrical: Replace cracked and damaged electrical cords; use extension cords for temporary wiring only. Consider having additional circuits or receptacles added by a qualified electrician.

Smoking: If you smoke, smoke outside; wherever you smoke, use deep, sturdy ashtrays.

For more information on “It’s Fire Prevention Week – Prevent Home Fires!” visit www.firepreventionweek.org

Fire Prevention Week is actively supported by fire departments across the country. For 85 years fire departments have observed Fire Prevention Week, making it the longest running public health and safety observance on record.

National Fire Protection Association