Fire Prevention Week

Multiple government agencies, both federally and locally, are encouraging residents to be prepared for a fire in their home.

This week has been declared Fire Prevention Week, and the United States Fire Administrative is sponsoring a nationwide Install. Inspect. Protect. campaign designed to raise awareness regarding smoke detectors in homes.

The Director of the Rabun County Emergency Management Agency Marty Dickson explained the importance of smoke alarms.

“Yes, it is a very big deal to have a smoke detector in case you have a fire in your home,” said Dickson. “At night time when you sleep, the smoke alarm will alarm you to get up and get out of the house.”

In addition to smoke detectors, Dickson encouraged every household to have a plan for getting out of the house during a fire.

“The fire escape plan is a big thing,” said Dickson. “Get with your family and identify the best way for each member to get out of the house, and a place that everybody can meet safely. That way when the fire department gets there, somebody can meet with them to make sure that everybody is out of the house and OK.”

Fire Prevention Week continues through Friday, and on Saturday, there is a Public Safety Day planned. More details on that throughout the week.