Fire Season is approaching

The changing of the seasons and the cooling of the air can be some person’s favorite time of year. The hot summer is over and the holiday season is upon us. However, this time of year brings uncertainty as many fires are sparked in the dry, windy and open areas. Each year, nearly 3,000 people die in U. S. home fires. In 2003-2006, roughly two-thirds of home-fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarm or no working smoke alarms. In more than half of the reported home fires where smoke alarms were present but didn’t operate even though the fire was large enough, batteries were missing or disconnected. Nuisance alarms were the leading reason for disconnected alarms. More than half of the smoke alarms found in reported fires and two-thirds of the alarms found in homes with fire deaths were powered by battery only. Sobering facts leading to the main points of making sure your home has smoke alarms and then make sure they work properly. You should check the batteries every 6 months and some people do it when we change the clocks for Daylight Savings. This is an easy reminder for something simple that could change your life. If you have children from the ages of 2-68, it is a good idea to practice fire drills and be aware of every exit around the home. A second story window could be the only possible exit if the stairs are blocked. Also, have a place to meet away from the house so everyone will know who is out and/or missing. The right combination of prevention and preparedness can help an unfortunate experience from becoming a tragedy. Make this fall season your year to fire safe your home so you can relax and take pleasure in the cooler weather and enjoy the upcoming holidays.