Fire prevention week will feature station tours, school visits and Marshal the Dog

Marshal the Dog frolics with kids during a recent fire safety event. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - The Rochester Fire Department recently announced that Oct. 9-15 is Fire Prevention Week. The theme set by the National Fire Protection Association is '"Fire Won't Wait, Plan your Escape."

According to Deputy Chief Adam Hughes, one of the easiest and most important things a family or individual can do before an emergency is to be aware of all exits, whether it's in a home, a neighbor's house, or a place of business. It could be a door, window, or bulkhead.

"In an emergency, the quickest way out may not be accessible. So knowing all the means of egress provides you with alternatives," said Hughes. "It's also important to have a meeting place once you have evacuated."

If you have children, Hughes suggests that families get together and map out their home on paper and practice their evacuation plan. "Practicing does two things, it builds familiarity and gives you the opportunity to test your smoke alarms."

Hughes says smoke alarms should be tested regularly. Most fire-related emergencies are caused by a lack of smoke alarms and preventative measures.

This year, the Fire Department will be visiting every public school throughout Fire Prevention Week. Students will get the opportunity to see multiple pieces of apparatus, emergency equipment, and Marshal the Dog. Students will also receive several useful tips and techniques to better protect themselves during an emergency.

"In addition, we'll have a wrecked vehicle at Spaulding High School with information about distracted driving," said Hughes. "On Friday, October 14, Fire, EMS, and Police will do a mock response and patient extrication in the Senior Parking Lot. It's our hope that students will understand the severity of distracted driving."

The Fire Department will be hosting station tours in the Central Fire Station at 37 Wakefield St. from Oct. 11-14, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The tours are meant for anyone that wishes to see the apparatus, tour the station, and learn more about fire safety and prevention. For large groups, Hughes suggests calling (603) 335-7545 to schedule an appointment.

Finally, the Rochester Public Library will be hosting a Book Walk in the area between Central Fire Station and City Hall. This year's recommended reading is Plan and Prepare! by Charles Ghigna. This book is an excellent resource to teach children how to plan and calmly evacuate an emergency situation. Call (603) 335-7549 for additional information.