ITHACA, N.Y. — With National Fire Prevention Week around the corner, the Ithaca Fire Department is reminding residents to have plans in place in case of a fire because every second counts.
“In a fire, seconds count,” the Ithaca Fire Department said in a news release. “Seconds can mean the difference between residents of our community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy.”
With that in mind, this year’s theme is “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out!”
Working smoke detectors and emergency plans are essential, the IFD says. The end of Daylight Savings Time on Nov. 5 is a way to reminder to change the batteries of smoke alarms at home.
National Fire Prevention Week takes place between Oct. 8 and 14. It is recognized by the National Fire Protection Association and fire agencies across the country.
Here are a few tips to prepare for a fire.
- Draw a map of your home with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
- Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
- Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
- Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
- Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
- Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.
If a school or any group wants to schedule a public information session of firehouse tour, contact the Ithaca Fire Chief’s office at 607-272-1234 for an appointment.