In support of the theme of National Fire Prevention Week, and at the request of the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal to expand Fire Prevention Week into Fire Prevention Month, Governor John Kitzhaber has proclaimed October as Oregon Fire Prevention Month. Oregon’s theme mirrors the national theme – Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives! Test Yours Every Month! “Responsibility for fire safety begins at home,” said State Fire Marshal Jim Walker. “All adults should ensure they have working smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside each bedroom and outside any sleeping area.” During October, the Office of State Fire Marshal and fire agencies statewide are teaming up in support of a social media education campaign and contests on Facebook and Twitter to raise awareness of the importance of having smoke alarms and testing them to be sure they work. A #TestItTuesday contest encourages Oregonians to take a “selfie” photo featuring them testing their smoke alarm. One Oregon winner will be chosen every week from the submissions posted to the OSFM Twitter feed and Facebook page. A #TriviaThursday contest involves weekly smoke alarm-related trivia questions posted on the OSFM Twitter feed and Facebook page each Thursday during October. The first correct answer wins. Visit the OSFM website for rules and information. Working smoke alarms provide an early warning to fire, allowing you vital minutes to escape, and increasing your chances of surviving. Additional fire safety tips: * For increased protection, have working smoke alarms on every level of your home (including the basement), in each bedroom, and in the hallway outside each bedroom. * Smoke alarms that are 10 years old or older should be replaced. * Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for the type of battery to use in your smoke alarm. * Smoke alarms with a non-replaceable (long-life) battery are designed to be effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, immediately replace the entire smoke alarm. * Never disconnect or remove batteries from smoke alarms for other uses. * Smoke alarms are available for people who are Deaf or hard of hearing. * If you need assistance with smoke alarms, contact your local fire agency. For more smoke alarm and fire safety information, contact your local fire agency or visit: http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/CommEd_SA_Program.shtml.
