The District of Saanich, the City of Victoria and the Town of View Royal are inviting residents to participate in Fire Prevention Week, which goes from Oct. 6 to 12. Fire alarms are the theme of this years campaign, focusing on the importance of working smoke alarms to keep residents safe.
“Approximately three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms, or no working smoke alarms,” said Victoria fire chief Daniel Atkinson in a news release. “Working smoke alarms help prevent these tragedies with a critical warning to get you and your family out quickly in case of fire.”
Fire departments recommend that Greater Victoria households install smoke alarms inside each bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of homes. They recommend to test alarms monthly and to set a calender date to replace alarm batteries at least once per year, and to replace the alarms every ten years.
The Sannich Fire Department also recommends residents develop a home fire escape plan that includes two ways out of every room, and to practice the plan at least twice per year, both during the day and at night.
“Fire Prevention Week is a great time to assess and improve the fire safety measures in your home," said Saanich Fire Department Chief Michael Kaye in a release. "We urge everyone to take simple steps such as installing and maintaining smoke alarms and being vigilant about eliminating common fire hazards in their homes. By working together, we can significantly reduce the risk of fires and ensure the safety of our families and community."
More information about Fire Prevention Week can be found at fpw.org.
