LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) – Having a plan could be the difference between life and death in the event of a fire. That was the message Lima Fire Inspector Warren Pughsley shared with children participating in the City of Lima’s Summer Parks Program.
Pughsley focused on the importance of fire safety at home, encouraging kids to have conversations with their families about what to do in case of a fire. A major point of emphasis was having a designated meeting location outside the home.
“The most important thing is having a plan,” Pughsley said. “Most people get in bad situations because they didn't plan, and then when something happens, they don't know how to adjust and deal with it.”
In addition to escape plans, Pughsley covered topics such as checking smoke detectors, the importance of doors in bedrooms, and ensuring guests at sleepovers know the safety plan.
“Our assignment was we need to check our smoke detector, so we can see if it works in case we have a fire, and you always need a door,” said Alanna Watkins, one of the program participants. “You don't want to live in a basement or attic if you don't have a door. And you have to have a plan, so when you have a sleepover with your friends, you have to tell them where to meet up if you have a fire.”
Pughsley also advised sleeping with the bedroom door closed, which could provide up to an extra 10 minutes of protection in a fire. If necessary, and if located on the third floor or lower, he said the best way to exit through a window is to hang from the windowsill and drop to the ground.
The Lima Fire Department regularly visits local schools, Safety City, and the parks program to teach fire safety and help children prepare for emergencies.
