10/06/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/06/2024 08:09
Visit one of our booths for safety tips, trivia and prizes!
Did you know you could have less than two minutes to evacuate safely once a smoke alarm sounds? Working smoke alarms save lives, and, in an emergency, every second counts.
That's why Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) is sharing important fire safety tips throughout Fire Prevention Week. Drop by one of their booths at locations across Vaughan this week to test your knowledge with trivia, win exciting prizes and learn how to stay safe:
Fire Prevention Week is recognized each year during the week of Oct. 9 by the National Fire Prevention Association, and has been proclaimed by the City of Vaughan from Oct. 6 to 12, 2024. Fire departments across North America observe Fire Prevention Week to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire in 1871 and the devastation it caused.
This year's theme, 'Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!' stresses the importance of working smoke alarms and knowing their signs and signals. Knowing what to do when an alarm sounds - with a beep or a chirp - will help keep you and your loved ones safe:
Your smoke alarms should meet the needs of all household members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities. Special alarms and devices ensure everyone can be alerted in case of a fire and can include:
If someone in your household requires help getting to safety, VFRS has a free voluntary Vulnerable Persons Registry that first responders reference during an emergency so they know to provide special assistance to those who need it.
Approximately 50 per cent of all fire fatalities occur in homes without working smoke alarms. A working smoke alarm gives you an early warning of a fire so you can get outside quickly. Follow these steps to ensure your home is prepared in case of an emergency:
Follow the City on Instagram to challenge yourself with fire prevention trivia throughout the week and check out more safety tips at vaughan.ca/fire.
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