This week is Fire Prevention Week, and South King Fire and Rescue is reminding Des Moines and Federal Way residents to "Practice Your Escape Plan."
The Burien/Normandy Park Fire Department (Fire District 2) and the North Highline Fire Department (Fire District 11) also are joining with the National Fire Protection Association in activities through Saturday, Oct. 13.
During this year's fire safety campaign, firefighters and safety advocates are spreading the word about the dangers of home fires and teaching local residents how to plan and practice escape from a home in case a fire occurs.
According to the latest association research, 3,030 people died in 2005 in home fires - about eight people every day. Yet only 23 percent of households have planned and practiced a home fire escape plan.
"Many times when we speak to residents who have experienced a fire in their home, they recall becoming confused and disoriented by the conditions and severity of the situation. But they realized they needed to get out fast," said Ron Biesold, South King fire marshal.
"Sometimes there are only seconds to escape, but there's no question that having a plan in place that has been practiced saves precious time and makes survival more likely. We hope that Fire Prevention Week will prompt folks in our community to plan and practice their escape."
Home fire escape tips include:
Install working smoke alarms on every level; and inside and outside of each sleeping area.
Develop a fire escape plan that identifies two ways out of each room and a family meeting place outside.
Make sure your plan allows for any specific needs in your household. If everyone knows what to do, everyone can get out quickly.
Practice using the plan, at least twice a year.
Remember, some children and adults may not awaken to the sound of a smoke alarm and may need help waking up.
If the smoke alarm sounds, go to your closest exit. If you run into smoke, turn and use another way out. If you must exit through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Don't take time to pick up belongings; just get out and help others get out. Move fast but stay calm.
