Following the deaths of seven people in South Carolina recently due to fire, State Fire Marshal Shane Ray wants to remind everyone to be fire safe.
“We need everyone working together to prevent these tragedies, “ Ray said. “We must learn from these tragic events that provide teachable moments. Typically, fire impacts our community and state in isolated events. This impact is compounded when lives are lost and especially if multiple fatalities occur. We must recognize the role each of us can play in prevention and be vigilant with our efforts. Our Division of Fire and Life Safety is committed, and we seek your help. The Division encourages everyone to be aware of the fire safety campaign, Fire is Everyone’s Fight.
This campaign, created by the United States Fire Administration, is designed to unite the fire service and others in a collaborative effort to reduce home fire injuries, deaths and property loss. It invites fire departments, safety advocates, community groups, and schools to promote fire safety and prevention themes and encourage safe habits in the home.
The framework can help make South Carolina safer and prevent additional tragedies. The challenge is to utilize the recent tragedies to prompt positive action, he said. The following tips are vital to enhance fire safety:
-Ensure behavior is not careless around fire or when using heat or appliances.
– Install and check smoke alarms to make sure they are working properly.
-Create an escape plan and practice it with your family during different times of the day.
-Call 911 as soon as you discover a fire.
-Always shut the door to the house when you leave. If you are prevented from leaving the house because of too much smoke or heat, get as far away from the fire as possible and shut the door.
“Local fire departments work hard to save lives,” he said. “However, time is not normally on their side. Help us honor those who have recently lost their lives by changing behavior and circumstances that can prevent the fire.”
Working together we can improve fire safety and ensure South Carolinians are safer.We remind everyone that your choices can impact the safety of your family, and we encourage you to partner with us on our mission of life safety.” For more information on how to become involved with the Division and/or your local fire department, visit www.scfiremarshal.llronline.com.
