Assemblyman Reilich stands in front of a "safe house" demonstration smoke trailer that provides visitors with a safe but valuable experience about the dangers of being caught in a structure fire.
"Every year children set more than 100,000 fires," said Reilich. "Fire Prevention Week serves as a great means to teach our children about fire and how to safely avoid it and how to handle an emergency situation."
Here are important facts to remember about fire safety from the U.S. Fire Administration:
- Time is the biggest enemy and every second counts! Escape first!
- Develop a home fire-escape plan and practice it frequently.
- The plan should include a designated outside meeting place.
- Ensure family members know at least two ways to escape from each room.
- Practice feeling your way out with your eyes closed.
- Never stand while escaping a fire, but crawl low under the smoke and try to keep mouths covered.
- Never return to a burning building for any reason; this mistake costs lives.
- Be sure smoke detectors are in working order at all times; they can dramatically increase chances of surviving a fire.
Reilich, noting he participated in a recent Fire Safety Day sponsored by a local fire station, said, "Not only did the children learn how to protect themselves in the event of a fire, but many of the adults, myself included, were surprised at how much they learned. I strongly encourage all residents to participate in or acquire information during National Fire Prevention Week."
For more information, contact Assemblyman Reilich's district office at (585) 225-4190 or via e-mail at reilicw@assembly.state.ny.us. You can also go to the Fire Prevention Week official Web site or the U.S. Fire Administration site at www.usfa.fema.gov.