Help Prevent Home Fires and Injuries with a Few Simple Steps

Green Meadows West neighbors are encouraged to review fire safety plans and preparations during National Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 6-12, 2013. In 2008, a house in the neighborhood's Plat 9 was destroyed by fire, killing one person.

 Here are some quick projects to help make your family safer:

• Replace smoke alarm batteries and test alarms. 
• Install new or inspect existing fire extinguishers. 
• Make, practice, and review fire-escape plans with children. 

Established by President Calvin Coolidge in 1911, National Fire Prevention Week annually commemorates the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.

This year's National Fire Prevention Week theme focuses on kitchen safety, including cooking, scald prevention, and microwave oven safety. A 50-second on-line video starring Sparky the Fire Dog and his Aunt Dotty discusses kitchen safety here.

The National Fire Prevention Association, Quincy, Mass., also offers many free resources for educators, safety professionals, and families—including free apps and e-books for kids! For a video describing the apps, click here.