Senator Helming Recognizes National Fire Prevention Week

National Fire Prevention Week is October 6-12 and Senator Pam Helming is urging local residents to reach out and thank their local firefighters and to take steps to make sure their homes are safe. 

“National Fire Prevention Week is such an important time to thank our local firefighters who selflessly serve our region during times of crisis. Whether it is a house fire, an emergency accident or a natural disaster, we can count on them every time. As State Senator, I will continue to advocate and do everything possible to help our first responders and local communities,” Senator Pam Helming said.

In recognition of National Fire Prevention Week, the National Fire Protection Association offers the following safety tips:

Install smoke alarms in every bedroom;
Use interconnected smoke alarms so when one sounds, they all sound;
Test all smoke alarms at least once a month;
Current alarms on the market employ different types of technology which could include smoke and carbon monoxide combined;
Place smoke alarms on the ceiling or high on a wall and keep them away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms; 
Special alarms are on the market which have strobe lights and bed shakers for those who are hard of hearing;
Replace all smoke alarms when they are ten years old. 

Additionally, Senator Helming urges residents to check their smoke detectors this week.  If in need of a smoke detector, the Red Cross offers free smoke alarms and installation to those in need. To learn more about this program and to find other ways to get involved, please visit https://www.redcross.org/local/new-york/western-and-central-new-york/about-us/our-work/home-fire-campaign.html.