LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Having a working smoke detector in your home can mean the difference between life and death.
Local fire officials met with area business leaders today to discuss fire prevention and the importance of regular safety checks. They stressed that businesses should have their fire alarm systems inspected annually and that residents should make sure their homes have functioning smoke detectors.
Officials also encouraged families to develop an escape plan in case of a fire.
“Every home should have a fire escape plan, knowing two ways out of every room, making sure your children know that their job is simply to get out and stay out. Your home should have a meeting place somewhere outside in your front yard — a landmark like a basketball pole or a mailbox — where everyone in your home knows to go to so that way you can keep accountability,” said Matt Reaman, Shawnee Township Fire Prevention Officer.
Fire Prevention Week is held each October to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which began on October 8, killing hundreds and leaving thousands homeless. The observance was established by President Calvin Coolidge in 1925 to educate the public about fire safety and prevention.
