The Bellefontaine Fire and Rescue were called to the Wayside Mobile Home Park Wednesday night after a blaze broke out. Firefighters found the victim unresponsive inside the trailer and he was taken to a Bellefontaine hospital.
“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.”
Fire always happens when you least expect it and having a smoke detector on every level of your home and in or just outside sleeping areas could mean the difference between surviving a house fire or not.
With temperatures dropping outside, we're looking at an increased risk for fires inside your home. Our Adrianna Michaels talked with experts on how to keep your family safe this winter season. Fire Safety Inspector Warren Pughsley with the Lima Fire Department says they always see an increase in calls relating to fires and the carbon monoxide detectors as soon as the colder air arrives.
As you turn your clocks forward this weekend, the Lima Fire Department is also recommending you make another change in your house. The LFD says now is a great time to change the batteries in your smoke detectors. While you're doing that, you should also check to make sure that yours is not expired. Smoke detectors typically have a ten year life span, and it's important to make sure they are working properly because it could mean your life if it isn't.
With Daylight Saving Time, the Red Cross and local fire departments recommend checking your smoke detectors.
We have evacuation plans in case of fire at schools and businesses, but why don't we have one for our own homes? Firefighters say it's just as important. Recent fatal house fires in the area are a wake up call. It can happen to anyone.
