continued:

While many Americans have smoke alarms (detectors) in their homes, many people have a false feeling of being safe.  Why?  Because they feel that the smoke alarms are working and protecting them.  However, the proper maintenance has not been performed, and the smoke alarm actually does not work.  Every month, the smoke alarm should be cleaned, and the battery in the alarm should be tested.  Every spring and fall the battery should be replaced.  The smoke alarm should be replaced by the time it reaches ten years of age.   

Most people think they have a lot longer to react and leave a building than they actually have.  Every person should plan and practice an escape plan, so that they can get out alive.  Seconds are critical; get out as fast and safely as possible.  Do not take time to get any items, call 9-1-1 from outside the building either from a cell phone or a neighbor’s phone.  Never go back inside for any reason. 

There is an overwhelming feeling that a fire will never strike themselves or someone close to them.  This statement is repeated over and over by victims from fires.  This is the wrong attitude!   

Fire safety is something that everyone needs to be aware of 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Do not wait until it is too late, practice fire safety every day!  If you have any questions or comments about this article, or any other fire safety subject, please feel free to call the Fire Company at 215-646-2555 (Option #6) or stop into either fire station any Monday night.  The Fire Prevention Committee is available to present programs upon request. Visit the Fort Washington Fire Company on the Internet at www.fortwashingtonfc.org.