FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, October 10, 2017

 

 Every Second Counts: Have 2 Ways Out!

TRENTON – The New Jersey Division of Fire Safety is distributing lifesaving home smoke alarms to the elderly and those in need throughout the state during National Fire Prevention Week, which runs October 8-14. This year’s theme is “Every Second Counts: Have 2 Ways Out!”   

The Division’s Community Risk Reduction Unit smoke alarm giveaway program is done in conjunction with the WABC7 Operation Save-A-Life campaign, which increases public awareness about fire safety and prevention and focuses on how to prepare for and handle emergency situations. The campaign has distributed thousands of smoke alarms to individuals who otherwise couldn't afford them. The Division began its distribution of smoke alarms during the summer and will continue through the rest of the year. 

Since it began participating in the program, the Division has given nearly 300,000 alarms to local fire departments, who then distribute them to their communities, including Jersey City, Newark, and Paterson. A similar alarm distribution occurs in southern New Jersey communities through the Home Depot. 

“We are pleased to support National Fire Prevention Week where it counts the most – in hundreds of local communities served by their volunteer and career departments,” said Louis Kilmer, Acting Director and State Fire Marshal of the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety. “We join them in asking the public to have and practice a family escape plan and to adopt fire prevention measures both individually, and as a family.” 

In addition to having a smoke alarm, Kilmer adds the following home fire safety tips that should be adopted in every home:

  • Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
  • Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
  • Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
  • Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
  • Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building. 

The Division of Fire Safety serves as the central fire service agency in the State. The Division is responsible for the development and enforcement of the State Uniform Fire Code, as well as engaging the public on community risk reduction strategies, assisting in fire department preparedness, and conducting firefighter training programs.

CONTACT:
Tammori Petty
Lisa Ryan
(609) 292-6055