MOBILE, Ala., October 11, 2011 — Every 82 seconds a home fire breaks out, according to the National Fire Protection Agency. Fires can cause irreparable damage to homes and businesses displacing families and employees. Last year, the American Red Cross responded to 63,000 home fires across the country and provided comfort and basic necessities to those affected. This October 9-15 the Red Cross is helping families and businesses learn how to protect themselves and others from fires in observance of National Fire Prevention Week.

“Taking simple steps like installing smoke detectors and developing and practicing a fire escape plan can make a critical difference in saving lives, homes and workplaces,” said Leisle Mims, Red Cross South Alabama District Executive, who recommends that every family and business develop and practice a fire safety plan. “Everyone at home, school and work should know what to do when they hear the sound of a smoke alarm.”

Additional recommendations include:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the house and inside bedrooms.
• Replace batteries in smoke alarms at least once a year. Test each alarm monthly by pushing the test button.
• Ensure that household members know two ways to escape from every room and designate a place to meet outside of your house in case of a fire. Practice your plan at least twice a year.
• Follow your escape plan in case of fire. Get out, stay out, and call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number. Visit www.redcross.org/homefires for additional fire safety tips.

Businesses, too, should be prepared. Fire is the most common of all business disasters. Companies, schools and other organizations can learn how to prepare for fires and other emergencies by becoming a member of the Red Cross Ready Rating™ Program at www.readyrating.org. Complete a free, online assessment of your current readiness level and receive customized feedback with tips to improve preparedness.

In addition to helping families and businesses prepare their homes and facilities for potential fires, the Red Cross is there to help those in need when fires break out. The Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter responded to 258 home fires last year by assisting over 900 people in its five county service area (includes Mobile, Baldwin, Clarke, Escambia, and Monroe Counties).

“In order to continue responding to disasters like fires at homes and businesses here in south Alabama, the Red Cross depends on the generous support of individuals and businesses in the community,” added Mims. People can also help those affected by home fires and other emergencies by making a financial donation to the American Red Cross Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter by calling (251) 544-6100 or mailing to P.O. Box 1764, Mobile, AL 36633. For more information about your local American Red Cross, log on to www.redcrossalcoast.org.

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