2 Ways Out, A Plan Worth Having

October 03, 2012

Seniors at Emmanuel Home practised their fire escape plan with the help of Edmonton Fire Rescue Services to kick off Fire Prevention Week, which runs from October 7–13, 2012.

The theme for Fire Prevention Week 2012 is Have 2 ways out.

“Preparing and practising 2 ways out of your home is taken very seriously by Edmonton Fire Rescue Services,” said Deputy Fire Chief of Public Safety Russell Croome. “Home fires can happen at any time and move extremely fast. Your escape plan prepares your family to think and exit quickly when your smoke alarm sounds.”

Between 2009 and 2011, there were 973 home fires reported in Edmonton resulting in 173 injuries and 18 fatalities. Fire officials around the province are raising public awareness to prevent, detect and escape from fires in order to keep communities safe and secure.

“Fire Prevention Week is an opportunity to remind Edmontonians of important life-saving steps to protect themselves, their families, and their homes,” said Edmonton Fire Marshal Tom Karpa, “Citizens of Edmonton are our biggest partner in our mission to protect life, property and the environment.”

Everyone is encouraged to create a fire escape plan with 2 ways out and discuss it with the whole family. The plan should include:

• A floor plan showing all doors and windows
• 2 ways out of each room marked in your plan
• A marked meeting place that is a safe distance outside of your home
• A separate plan to assist any young children, older adults, or people with disabilities
• Practise, practise, practise

Officials are also reminding Edmontonians to install smoke alarms and test them monthly.

Visit 3minutedrill.alberta.ca for more information about creating a fire evacuation plan for your family.

 

For more information:

Christina Stockdale

Title	Fire Prevention Officer, Fire Rescue Services
Telephone	780-496-3628