October is National Fire Prevention Month and the American Red Cross Martin County Chapter has been helping to spread the word making numerous appearances throughout the community. "Because of dry weather conditions, fire prevention remains a concern," said Mary Sawyer, Executive Director, American Red Cross Martin County Chapter. The award winning Disaster Education Simulator (DES) is scheduled to make two appearances at Citrus Grove Elementary, 2527 SW Citrus Blvd., PalmCity, in November.
The DES will recreate conditions encountered during a house fire, such as a heated door and smoke. There also will be examples of potential fire hazards and fire escape plans. Along with the experience of surviving a house fire, visitors will receive literature for referral.
"The DES has proven to be a useful tool for educating the public about disasters that can happen without a moment's notice," said Rob Shelt, Director of Disaster Services, American Red Cross Martin County Chapter. "I hope individuals in the community will take advantage of any of the locations the DES will be this month. It can save their life," added Shelt.
The DES is a 33 foot motor home that has been modified into a mobile safety classroom that is able to simulate disaster conditions, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and house fires. Its multifunctional use earned it the Home and Safety Council's prestigious All Star Safety Award.
Presentations will take place on Friday, November 7, 9:15 a.m., and on Tuesday, November 18, 6:30 p.m. at the CitrusGroveElementary school's PTA meeting as part of Safety Night.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, about 80 percent of all fire deaths occur in the home. The American Red Cross Martin County Chapter is reminding everyone that now is a good time to check the health of your smoke detector.
Smoke Detector Tips:
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home (but not unfinished attics). Make sure there is an alarm in or near every sleeping area.
Remember, smoke rises. Mount smoke alarms high on ceilings or walls. Ceiling-mounted alarms should be installed at least four inches away for the nearest wall. Wall-mounted alarms should be installed four to 12 inches away from the ceiling.
Don't install smoke alarms near windows, outside doors, or ducts where drafts might interfere with their operation.
Don't paint your smoke alarms. Paint or other decorations could keep them from working when you most need it.
Replace the batteries in your smoke alarms once a year, or as soon as the alarm "chirps," warning that the battery is low. Helpful hint:schedule battery replacements for the same day you change your clock from daylight to standard time in the fall.
Regularly vacuuming or dusting your smoke alarm following manufacturer's instructions can help keep it working properly.
Replace your smoke alarms once every 10 years.
Never "borrow" a battery from a smoke alarm.
Make sure that everyone in your home can hear and recognize the sound of the alarm and knows how to react immediately.
Your Martin County Chapter of the American Red Cross is funded by local dollars. The Chapter receives no Federal, State or local tax funding. To donate your dollars or your time, contact the American Red Cross Martin County Chapter at (772) 287-2002 or visit the Chapter headquarters at 2750 South Kanner Highway, Stuart, Florida, 34994. You may also donate online at
www.martinredcross.org.
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