Cumberland County Emergency Services is observing Fire
Prevention Week this week as part of the National Fire Protection Association’s
annual campaign. The theme for the week, which runs Oct. 6 – 12, is “Not Every
Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape.”
The campaign aims to remind residents to create and practice
a fire escape plan for their homes and make sure all family members know what
to do in case of a fire. The National Fire Protection Association’s website at nfpa.org/fpw
has useful information such as how-to guides for making a fire escape plan,
videos and activities for children.
Residents are reminded to inspect and test smoke alarms
monthly. Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom in a house, outside
each sleeping area and on every level including the basement. Smoke alarms
should be replaced every 10 years.
Fire Prevention Week has been observed since 1922 and is
held in October around the anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which
claimed the lives of more than 250 people and destroyed more than 17,400
structures.
Cumberland Alerts
Cumberland County residents are encouraged to sign up for
Cumberland Alerts, a free emergency notification system that sends severe
weather, evacuation or protective action information by text, phone or email.
Go to the County’s website at co.cumberland.nc.us
and click on the Cumberland Alerts icon to sign up or call 910-321-6736.