October is Fire Prevention Month

The Cosumnes Fire Department has declared October to be Fire Prevention Month. The public is encouraged to have an escape plan in place in the event of a fire in their home.

ELK GROVE, Calif. – In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Mere seconds can mean the difference between a safe escape and a tragedy. Escape planning and practice can help you make the most of the time you have, giving everyone enough time to get out.

Home fire escape planning is the focus of this year’s “Fire Prevention Week,” a national, annual program sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and recognized by fire departments throughout the United States.

This year’s theme is: “Not every hero wears a cape. Plan and practice your escape.” The campaign recognizes heroes who take small, but important actions to keep themselves and those around them safe from fire, such as:

• Testing smoke alarms
• Closing bedroom doors while sleeping (“Close Before You Doze”)
• Planning escape routes
• Choosing an outside meeting place
• Practicing your home fire drill twice a year

Download the Home Fire Escape Plan