The American Red Cross is urging families to check smoke alarms and practice a home fire escape plan during Fire Prevention Week, which runs Oct. 4 through Oct. 10.
The organization says people may have less than two minutes to escape after a home fire begins. Families should identify two ways out of every room, choose an outdoor meeting place and practice the plan with everyone in the household.
Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. The Red Cross also recommends testing alarms regularly and replacing units according to the manufacturer’s guidance.
Cooking and heating equipment are leading causes of home fires. Residents should stay in the kitchen while cooking and keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
