Fire Prevention Week focuses on escape routes

Thursday, October 11, 2012

* 'Have 2 Ways Out' campaign stresses importance of having more than one way out of a burning structure.

Nevada Daily Mail

It's Fire Prevention Week, and the Nevada Fire Department, along with State Fire Marshal Randy Cole, is encouraging local residents to give some thought to how to escape if a fire breaks out.

"It is important that families plan and prepare for the unpredictability and dangers associated with fires," State Fire Marshal Cole said. "Fires can spread rapidly, blocking planned escape routes. This makes it essential to have at least two quick escape routes planned in advance from different rooms throughout your home. Having an alternate route in case another route becomes blocked can save lives."

According to the National Fire Protection Association, in 2010 there were an estimated 369,500 reported home structure fires across the U.S., resulting in 2,640 civilian deaths. An NFPA survey also revealed that only 23 percent of American households have actually developed and practiced a fire evacuation plan.

Cole suggests developing a home escape plan as soon as a family moves into a new residence; regularly practicing the plan and explaining it to children; and revising the plan as the children grow up.

Cole adds that a working smoke detector is essential.

"Working smoke detectors increase your chance of survival by 50 percent, and are something every household should have," he said.

For more information on "Have 2 Ways Out," visit www.firepreventionweek.org.

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