If you call 911 for fire— these guys will respond!

The Springfield Volunteer Fire Department has been busy this week, educating and promoting this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!” The campaign works to educate everyone about the small but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe.  

Statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) show that in 2017 U.S. fire departments responded to 357,000 home structure fires. These fires caused 2,630 fire deaths and 10,600 fire injuries. On average, seven people died in a fire in a home per day during 2012 to 2016.  

“These numbers show that home fires continue to pose a significant threat to safety,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of Outreach and Advocacy. “In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Escape planning and practice can help you make the most of the time you have, giving everyone enough time to get out.

In addition, Springfield Fire Chief Charlie Baumann, would like everyone to make sure to check their smoke detectors and change the batteries.

“Also be sure to check your carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they’re working,” said Baumann adding, “It’s also a good time to go through your fire plans including an escape route and where to meet.”

Fire personal will be seen throughout town, doing fire inspections at local businesses and churches.

“They’ll be keeping their eyes out for any fire hazards and we’ll let them know if there are any,” said Chief Baumann.

In addition, they’ll be spending times at local schools putting on a forum for students. The week will end with fourth graders from both Springfield Elementary and St Raphael Catholic School visiting the fire house.

The students will be shown a tour of the firehouse and learn more about the equipment. Springfield Fire will also let the kids try on some of their turnout (uniform) gear, and spray some water.  Ending the tour the students will be loaded up in a fire truck and get a tour of the town.  

While NFPA and the Springfield Fire Department are focusing on home fires, these messages apply to virtually any location.

“Situational awareness is a skill people need to use wherever they go,”  explained NFPA. “No matter where you are, look for available exits. If the alarm system sounds, take it seriously and exit the building immediately.”

The NFPA offers the following escape planning tips. For more information check out the National Fire Protection Association at NFPA.org

Pull together everyone in your household and make a plan. Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes.