The Wheeling Fire Department would like residents to know October 9-15 is Fire Prevention Week. Fire Prevention Week was started 100 years ago in 1922 by the National Fire Protection Association. By remembering the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the NFPA was set to teach children and adults how to stay safe in the event of a fire. 

This year, the theme is "Fire won't wait. Plan your escape" to help educate everyone about how important it is to have a plan in place just in case a fire does happen in your home

Today’s homes and contents burn faster than ever. That is because natural materials such as solid wood and cotton which burn slower and give off less heat aren't being used as frequently and more flammable materials like plastics and synthetics are found and are highly flammable. 

“You may have a few minutes or less to safely escape a home fire from the time the smoke alarm sounds." 

The theme of this year is to not wait and develop a plan today. A plan for your escape is going to be all it takes to make it a lot safer for you and your family in the event of a fire at your home. 

What you can do: 

The Wheeling Fire Department wants to share these key home fire escape planning tips:

•     Make sure your plan meets the needs of all your family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.

•    Smoke alarms should be installed inside every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of your home. Smoke alarms should be interconnected so when one  sounds, they all sound.

•    Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows open easily.

•    Have an outside meeting place a safe distance from your home where everyone should meet.

•    Practice your home fire drill at least twice a year with everyone in the household, including guests.

•    Practice at least once during the day and at night.

Be safe and fire free all year long,

The members of the Wheeling Fire Department