The Home Page Network

October is National Fire Prevention Month.

Local firefighters have been speaking to area students about how to prevent fires and how to respond safely in the event of a fire. They encourage every one to check their smoke detectors on an annual basis. The rule used to be to change the batteries every 6 months, but newer smoke detectors have batteries that last for years. Even if you change the batteries on a regular basis, the smoke detectors themselves should be changed about every 10 years. You should also have a smoke detector in each room and hallway of your house.

Having a fire extinguisher on hand is also recommended and knowing the proper way to use it. Remember to aim at the base of the fire and use a sweeping motion to extinguish the flames. Families should practice fire drills at home annually, when their is new construction, or any change in family dynamics. Included in the escape plan should be one spot for the family to meet once out of the house.

Home Page would like to thank all of our local emergency service personnel for risking their lives to keep us safe and for educating the community on these important topics.