As Fire Prevention Week™ approaches Rockwall Fire Department reminds residents: Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!™
The Rockwall Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®)—the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years—to promote 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.
NFPA statistics 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.
While NFPA and the Rockwall 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,” said Ariana Hargrove, Assistant Chief/Fire Marshal with Rockwall Fire. “No matter where you are, look for available exits. If the alarm system sounds, take it seriously and exit the building immediately.”
The Rockwall Fire Department is hosting an Open House in support of this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape this Saturday, October 12th from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm at Fire Station #2 located at 920 Rockwall Parkway. This event is free and include demonstrations, free pizza, bounce houses for all ages, and more.
Information Courtesy of Rockwall Fire Department
