The Great Escape

Did you know that the vast majority of fatal fires occur in the home-- the very place most people feel safest? Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce your family's risk from fire. One very effective and fun way is to participate in "The Great Escape" during Fire Prevention Week, October 4-10. What's more, you could win a trip to Walt Disney World!

"The Great Escape," sponsored by the non-profit National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), is the first-ever North American fire drill. Please join families across North America in developing a home escape plan and practicing it on October 6 at 6 PM. Before October 6th, you can get a copy of the Home Escape Plan Grid/Entry Form at City Hall. After practicing the plan on October 6th bring your escape plan to the Wilmore Fire Department on West Linden Street for review. Each participating fire department will select one escape plan to be submitted to NFPA's "The Great Escape" grand prize contest. The NFPA will randomly select one winner to receive a trip for four to Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL.* Also several local businesses have generously donated various prizes to be randomly selected from all fire escape plans subrnitted.

Following are some guidelines to help you and your family develop a home escape plan and prepare for "The Great Escape":

• Gather your family together and using the home escape grid/entry form, draw a floor plan of your home. Mark all doors and windows.
• Plan two ways out of every room. The first way out should be the door; the second way could be a window. Make sure windows open easily. In a multi-level building, never use an elevator to get out, always use the stairs.
• Agree on an outside meeting place out in front of your home. Mark your meeting place on the your escape plan.
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and in or near every sleeping area. Test alarm batteries once a month, and replace alarm batteries annually. Make sure everyone knows the sound of the alarm and how to react immediately whenever it sounds
• Practice your escape plan at least twice a year.
• And finally: Call 911, then get out. If conditions are too threatening, GET OUT IMMEDIATELY. Once out, stay out, then call 911 from the nearest phone. NEVER go back inside a burning building, conditions deteriorate rapidly in a fire and it will overwhelm you.

Thank you for participating in "The Great Escape." Although we hope you never have to use it, planning and practicing your home escape plan may one day save your life and the lives of your loved ones. You are also invited to our Open Houses, Oct. 6th and 9th, 6-8 p.m. during Fire Prevention Week at the fire station. If you have questions or concerns about home safety, please get in touch with us through City Hall.

--Members of the Wilmore Fire Department

*Grand prize is sponsored by KIDDE Safety, the world's leading manufacturer of home safety products under the KIDDE and nighthawk brand names.