I meant to do a post on fire prevention during Fire Prevention Week (October 7-13), but like many things, I neglected to do it.
It struck me that like my post, fire prevention can take a backseat to what we perceive to be more pressing matters.
As a military family, however, fire prevention is something for which we must make time.
Maybe it's because Hubs used to be a firefighter. (I know, I know! Lucky girl am I...all those uniforms!) More likely, however, it's because a girl I go to law school with, whose young daughter attends M2's daycare, lost everything in a fire that displaced her family and seven families who lived in her building. No lost lives, but the devastating effects on their minds and hearts is readily apparent. (I should also mention that if you're renting and you don't have renter's insurance, you need to go ahead and make a phone call to purchase some).
When our spouses are deployed, it's especially important to edit the fire safety plan you have in place with your family. If you don't have one, now is the perfect time to make a plan. We have discussed at length on SpouseBuzz how many of us are planners to the nth degree--make sure fire safety is on your list. Also, for those of you for whom moving is a part-time job, you need to acquaint yourselves and your kids with the best fire escape plan for your surroundings--wherever you are.
If you have kids, use the resources available at the US Fire Administration site devoted to children. Lots of excellent information in a non-scary format for kids of all ages. Take time to check out the resources for parents near the bottom of the homepage.
Make sure your exit route is planned and you practice. Make sure your kids know what to do. Make sure your smoke detection equipment is up-to-date and batteries are functioning properly.
If you have any tips that have worked for your family, post them in comments!
