CHARLESTON, W.Va. — For West Virginia State Fire Marshal Ken Tyree every week of the year is a fire prevention week. But he hoped the outreach and spotlight of October as Fire Prevention Month and this week as Fire Prevention Week will help to narrowly focus fire safety toward everybody.
Tyree said fire deaths in West Virginia have actually dropped in recent yeas, but he admitted the can’t be satisfied with the status quo.
“It’s a labor of love and we’ll endure it until we get to a place where we have fire deaths, if not eliminated, to a point it will be much more acceptable,” said Tyree.
Public safety reminders to check smoke detectors and plan a family evacuation plan for your house are always part of the extension effort. According to Tyree one is no more important than the other.
“I think it’s a combination, the working smoke alarm is critical, but having an escape plan and sitting down with your family to discuss having a clear way out is equally important,” he said.
A program supported by the Fire Marshal’s office through the American Red Cross has put free smoke detectors in hundreds of West Virginia homes. Tyree many have a lifetime commitment to protecting the public from the horrors of a house fire. This year’s fire prevention theme is , “Not All Heroes Wear Capes.” According to Tyree, the theme is specifically aimed at recognizing the work done by many in the area of fire safety and prevention.
“Although we talk about it every month throughout the year, really we bring this enhanced reminder to recognize the good work going on and to encourage others to be involved.”