News and Articles
10/14/2010
October is Fire Prevention Month
October is Fire Prevention Month
Santa Fe County – October 14, 2010- The Santa Fe Board of County Commissioners (BCC) passed resolution 2010-177 recognizing October as Fire Prevention Month. In an effort to raise awareness, during fire prevention month, Santa Fe County Fire Prevention Division will increase prevention presentations. The Fire Prevention Division will be conducting age appropriate fire prevention presentations at County Schools and Senior Centers throughout the month of October. There will also be public safety announcements on local radio stations and prevention shows on Comcast channel 28 and 16.
“Fire Prevention Month is an excellent time for families to review their homes for fire hazards, test their smoke detectors, and create and practice a fire escape plan,” said Deputy Chief/Fire Marshal David Sperling. He continued, “Planning, preparation, and practice are the keys to saving lives. Residents do not want to be unprepared during a fire or emergency.”
Working smoke detectors, home fire drills, and fire escape plans are all important aspects of fire prevention. Smoke detectors should be tested once a month and the batteries changed twice a year. Residents are encouraged to change the batteries when the time changes in the spring and fall, “Change your Clocks, Change your Batteries.” An effective fire escape plan is also key for being prepared in an emergency. Fire escape plans should include the family drawing a map of their home and determining two-ways out of every bedroom, establishing a safe meeting place, then practicing the plan at least twice a year.
Many home fires are the result of dirty chimneys. Homeowners should have their chimneys cleaned buy a professional technician once a year to remove the build-up of creosote.
For more information or for residents or local groups interested in having the Santa Fe County Fire Prevention Division do a presentation or bring the Fire Safety House to an event should contact the fire prevention division at (505) 995-6523 or visit www.santafecountyfire/org.