Several local organizations are taking part in the 2024 Fire Prevention Week initiative, educating residents on the importance of fire safety in the off-season.
This year’s campaign theme, “Smoke Alarms: Make Them Work for You,” was chosen to highlight the importance of smoke alarm education in the home, at school, or at work.
According to the County of Grande Prairie, nearly three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with no working smoke alarms, and around 38 per cent of home fire deaths occur in homes where no smoke alarms are present at all.
As a result, officials are recommending residents take a few simple steps to mitigate risks associated with a lack of smoke alarm education. As such, homeowners are encouraged to install interconnected smoke alarms in every bedroom, and on every level of the home, and test all smoke alarms at least once per month to ensure they are still working. Additionally, residents are advised that all smoke alarms should be replaced when they are 10 years old.
FireSmarting properties also come as a priority for several fire departments in the Peace Region, with the City beginning its own project in the middle of the month, and the Beaverlodge Fire Rescue Team advising residents to keep chimneys clean as the temperatures continue to drop and fireplaces see more use.
Interested individuals can learn more about Fire Prevention Week and participate in learning opportunities on the NFPA’s website.
