National Fire Prevention Week: Essential tips for a safer home

Did you know the top three causes of fires in Overland Park include unattended cooking, electrical and the careless discard of smoking material?

Fires can spread rapidly, leaving little time to react. The warning sounds of a smoke alarm can be the difference between escaping a fire safely or being caught in a dangerous situation. In your home smoke alarms should be placed:

• On every floor
• Inside and outside each sleeping area
• At least three feet away from air vents and exhaust fans
• Out of the path of steam or fumes from bathrooms or cooking areas.

In recognition of National Fire Prevention Week October 6-12, you can take proactive steps to ensure the safety of your home and loved ones:

1. Test your smoke alarms monthly, change your 9V batteries every six months and replace the smoke alarm unit by or before it reaches 10 years old. 
2. Develop and practice a fire escape plan with all members of your household. Identify two exits from each room and establish a meeting point outside.
3. Stay in the kitchen while cooking, keep flammable materials away from heat sources and use a timer to remind you to check your food.
4. Inspect electrical cords for damage and avoid overloading outlets. 
5. Keep flammable liquids like gasoline, cleaning agents and paint in proper containers and away from heat sources. Store them in a well-ventilated area.
6. Never leave candles unattended and keep them away from anything that could catch fire. Use sturdy candle holders and place them on stable surfaces.
7. Have your heating system inspected annually by a professional. Clean chimneys and flues regularly to prevent buildup.
8. If you smoke, please smoke outside. Before disposing of butts and ashes, ensure they are completely extinguished. Dousing cigarettes in water or placing them in a bucket of sand is the safest way to do that.

Outdoor fires can pose significant dangers during dry weather. In Overland Park, a permit is required for open burns on public streets and public or private property, with the exception of recreational fires. To protect our community, the Overland Park Fire Department encourages residents to voluntarily refrain from any burning on days when weather conditions increase the likelihood of rapid fire spread. Being mindful of these regulations and recommendations helps ensure the safety of all community members during dry spells.

Implementing these fire safety measures can drastically reduce the risk of fire-related injuries and property damage.

Meet your OP firefighters

In celebration of Fire Prevention Week, the Overland Park Fire Department is hosting three open houses for you to learn about fire safety and meet your local firefighters. 

• Monday, October 7 at Fire Station 48, 12301 W. 175^th Street, from 5-7 p.m. 
• Wednesday, October 9 at Fire Station 43, 13801 Switzer Road, from 5-7 p.m.
• Friday, October 11 at Fire Station 46, 9000 W 62^nd Terrace (Merriam) from 5-7 p.m.

Learn more fire safety and prevention tips at opkansas.org/FireSafety.