October 7, 2022
Fire Prevention Week kicks off on Sunday and Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) is reminding Edmontonians to plan and practice their fire escape plan and ensure their smoke alarms are installed and working.
“In the event of a fire, you will not have time to consider your escape options and may only have a few minutes to get out safely,” explained Fire Marshal Rebecca Webber. “This is why it is important to practice your fire escape plan regularly so everyone in your household knows what to do and where to go.”
Here’s what you can do to stay safe:
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Make a home fire escape plan. Draw a map of your home showing all doors and windows. Discuss the plan with everyone in your household.
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Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows leading outside can be easily opened.
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Choose an outside meeting place (such as a tree or lamp post) that is a safe distance from the home. Make sure everyone in the household knows to meet there in case of a fire.
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Practice your fire escape plan both at night and during the day, with everyone in your household. Do this at least twice a year.
- Practice using different ways out.
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Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
If you live in an apartment, meet with your landlord or building manager to learn about the fire safety features and plans in your building. Know the locations of all exit stairs from your floor and know where the meeting point is.
Remember, working smoke alarms save lives.
“Smoke alarms should be installed inside every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home,” said Fire Marshal Webber. “Test alarms each month by pressing and holding the test button. Replace alarm batteries at least once a year and replace the entire alarm unit (both electrical and battery-operated) every 10 years. We encourage people to consider making the first Saturday of each month “Smoke Alarm Saturday”
This year’s Fire Prevention Week toolkits were donated by Co-operators Insurance:
