October 1, 2019 3:20 a.m.
In support of National Fire Prevention Week and at the request of the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal, Governor Kate Brown has proclaimed October as Fire Prevention Month.
Oregon’s theme this year mirrors the 2019 national theme, which is “Not every hero wears a cape. Plan and practice your escape”.
State Fire Marshal Jim Walker said during a typical home fire, residents may have just minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds. He said planning and practicing an escape can help people make the most of this narrow window of time and give everyone enough time to get out safely.
In the five-year period from 2014 to 2018, home fires killed 154 people and injured another 1,029 in Oregon.
A release from the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshall lists simple steps to plan for safe home fire escape:
*Ensure the home has working smoke alarms and remember to check them monthly
*Make an escape plan, showing every window and door, and share it with everyone in the household.
*Know two ways out of every room, if possible
*Practice a home fire drill at least twice a year, during the night and day
*When the smoke alarm sounds, get out and stay out. Never go back inside for others or pets
*Once outside, call 911.
For more smoke alarm and fire safety information, contact a local fire agency or go to https://www.oregon.gov/osp/programs/sfm/Pages/default.aspx