How do you put out a grease fire on your stove? Do you have a fire extinguisher in you home? Are your smoke detectors working?
Oct. 9-15 is Fire Prevention Week, and the state fire marshal’s office is encouraging all Ohioans to think of at least one thing they can do to prevent or prepare for a fire in their homes.
Last week, the Coal Grove Volunteer Fire Department hosted its Fire Safety Day to educate people on what to do in the event of a house fire, whether it be in the kitchen or laundry room.
Education really is key when it comes to an emergency situation. Fire is a strong and frightening force, especially when it is threatening you or your family’s safety. Without the proper preparedness and knowledge, it would be so easy to panic and make a mistake.
Where there is fire, it only seems logical to throw water on it. But many don’t know that water makes a grease fire much more dangerous and things could take a deadly turn.
So, thanks to the CGVFD for hosting this event annually to get people thinking of ways to keep their homes safe.
Also, around this time every year, our local fire departments head to the schools to teach children about fire safety — what smoke detectors look like, what firefighters look like in full gear, how to stay low in a smoky room, the importance of a home escape plan and other life-saving tips.
According to the fire marshal’s office, an average of 115 Ohioans are killed by fires each year. With continuing education in public and in our schools, hopefully that number will drop.
In observance of Fire Prevention Week, we would encourage all Lawrence Countians to check that their smoke detectors are not more than 10 years old and that they have working batteries. It’s one small step that could save a life.