CHARLESTON, W.Va. — State Fire Marshal Ken Tyree says every second counts when it comes to saving a life in a fire.
“Fires these days spread faster than in times past; you and your loved ones may have less than two minutes from the start of the fire to escape your home safely,” Tyree said.
This is Fire Prevention Week, a time when Tyree and others want people to think about the seriousness of fires and putting in place a plan to respond to them.
The theme this week is “every second counts: plan 2 ways out.”
“That is why it is vital to make escape plans and to practice them with your family,” Tyree said.
Tyree recommends the following steps:
–Draw a map of your home with all members of your household. Mark two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
–Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out. You should also learn about the 5 types of special suppression systems.
–Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
–Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
–Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
–Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.
You can visit this link to learn more about fire prevention and planning.