In spite of that fact, each year hundreds of destructive fires occur in our city that threaten lives and destroy millions of dollars in property. Adding more firefighters and equipment will not make the problem go away. Only the actions of citizens to prevent fires from happening and to protect themselves and their families in the event one occurs will have a significant impact in reducing this tragic loss. Because so few people realize this, many people become trapped by fire when they take too long to escape or forget to crawl low under the hot smoke and toxic gasses. FACT - early warning of a fire is critical to escaping it.
Smoke detectors provide that warning.
Unfortunately, estimates nationally are that as many as half of all homes are unprotected because of missing detectors or dead batteries. At a minimum, a working detector belongs outside of all bedrooms. To provide additional protection they should be installed in bedrooms, the living room, and the basement. FACT - every family needs a home escape plan that features at least two ways to the outside from every room and includes a designated meeting place. Practicing that drill at least twice a year can help assure that everyone will know what to do if and when the alarm sounds.