October is Fire Prevention Month in Michigan. It’s time to check the batteries on your smoke detectors, make an exit plan in case of a fire, and teach the kids safe habits.
This year’s National Fire Protection Association theme is “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” It reminds us to never leave cooking unattended and to keep cooking surfaces clean and burners free of grease buildup.
Most fire deaths happen at night. About half of deadly fires start in the living room, while 17% start in the kitchen and 16% in bedrooms. Over half of all deadly fires since 2017 have involved careless smoking.
Orlene Hawks, Director of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs said, “It is critical for each of us to practice fire safety in our home with our entire family, including our children. Create a fire escape plan and practice it often as a family – it is a simple thing to do, and it can save the lives of the people we love.”
State Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer advises homeowners to have working smoke detectors in every bedroom and to close bedroom doors at night.
Reporting for WGRT -Jennie McClelland
