Fire Safety

A fire consumed a home in Brockway, Pennsylvania early Thursday, April 3, 2008 killing 10 people and forcing one of the survivors to jump from the second floor. Eight people, including 5 children, were killed and two were missing and presumed dead. Two others escaped unharmed. This tragedy is a sobering reminder of how quick and lethal fire can be.

Despite public awareness campaigns and fire safety programs, fatal fires still happen. These events, although tragic, can be turned around to save lives in the future. Through lives lost, we are reminded of how important it is to practice home evacuation and to ensure home
fire safety equipment is in working order.

First and foremost, make sure that your home is fire safe by having your electrical system inspected by a licensed electrician. Then, keep matches and other incendiary devices out of reach from children. Last but not least, make sure you install at least one fire extinguisher, smoke detector and carbon monoxide detectors on each floor of your home within 15 feet of each bedroom. Also, make sure that a portable fire escape ladder is placed in each bedroom where the occupant can find it.

On a monthly basis, practice a fire drill with the entire family. Pick an area outside the home where everyone must meet to ensure everyone escapes safely. Practice hanging fire escape ladders on windows. Do not deploy or climb down the ladders unless used in an real emergency. Ensure everyone knows how to use the fire extinguishers, and knows where they are located. Never discharge a fire extinguisher unless it is being used in an actual emergency.

We pray for the adults and children who perished in the Pennsylvania fire. It is a terrible loss for the town, the state and the country. Take the opportunity to reinforce fire safety in your own home, with your extended family and your community. With a small investment of time and money, you can make sure you are ready in case fire strikes.