PHOTO: This image provided by the National Fire Protection Association highlights this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme: “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!”
The Victoria Fire Department is teaming up with Gru and the Minions for a fun and educational show about the role of smoke alarms in fire safety.
The fire department is inviting local schools and the general public to attend the department’s 2024 fire prevention show at the Victoria Fine Arts Center, 1002 Sam Houston Drive, on the following dates:
- Tuesday, Oct. 8, 9 a.m. & 1 p.m.
- Wednesday, Oct. 9, 9 a.m. & 1 p.m.
- Thursday, Oct. 10, 9 a.m. & 1 p.m.
The show, which will feature characters from the Despicable Me films, is based on this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme: “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!”
Fire Prevention Week is a nationwide campaign led by the National Fire Protection Association to teach children and adults about common fire hazards.
Smoke alarm safety
According to the NFPA, roughly three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with no working smoke alarms. The Victoria Fire Department offers the following tips for proper smoke alarm installation and maintenance:
- Install at least one smoke alarm on every level of the home.
- Install smoke alarms inside and outside each bedroom and sleeping area.
- It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound.
- People who are deaf or hearing-impaired can use special alarms with strobe lights or bed shakers.
- Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
- Smoke alarms should be placed on the ceiling or high on the wall.
- Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet from the stove.
- Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
- There are two kinds of alarms. Ionization smoke alarms are quicker to warn about flaming fires. Photoelectric alarms are quicker to warn about smoldering fires. It is best to use both types of alarms in the home.
To learn more about Victoria Fire Department events and programs, visit www.victoriatx.gov/fire.