A staff report
Bladen County, NC – As National Fire Prevention Week kicks off, the Bladen County Health and Human Services Agency (BCHHSA) is reminding residents that safety in the kitchen begins with them. With the theme “Cooking Safety Starts with You,” BCHHSA is actively promoting fire safety awareness, particularly in the kitchen, to reduce the risk of devastating fires and protect families across the county.
Fire Prevention Week, which runs from October 8th to October 14th this year, has always served as a crucial reminder for families to prioritize fire safety. BCHHSA, in partnership with local fire departments and organizations, is taking this opportunity to stress the importance of safe cooking practices.
The kitchen is often the heart of any home, but it can also be a hotspot for fire hazards. Unattended cooking is a leading cause of home fires in the United States, and BCHHSA is encouraging residents to be vigilant. Lisa Davis, Director of the Bladen County Health and Human Services Agency, emphasized, “Preventing kitchen fires starts with you. Always stay in the kitchen when you are cooking, and if you must leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.”
Other key kitchen safety tips promoted by BCHHSA include keeping flammable objects away from stovetops, using a timer to remind oneself of cooking times, and keeping children and pets at a safe distance from cooking appliances.
To provide residents with comprehensive information on fire prevention and kitchen safety, BCHHSA is directing them to valuable online resources. The official Fire Prevention Week website, www.fpw.org, offers a wealth of information on fire safety practices, home fire escape planning, and more.
For parents looking to educate their children about fire safety, Sparky the Fire Dog’s website, www.sparky.org, is a fantastic resource. It offers interactive games, videos, and materials designed to teach kids about fire safety in an engaging and age-appropriate manner.
Throughout the week, BCHHSA will be collaborating with local fire departments to host events and educational sessions. These events will focus on fire prevention, safety drills, and the importance of having working smoke alarms in homes. These activities aim to engage the community actively and provide hands-on experience in fire safety.
Residents are encouraged to check with BCHHSA or their local fire department for information on these events and opportunities to participate.
National Fire Prevention Week is a vital reminder for all Bladen County residents to take proactive steps in preventing fires and protecting their homes and loved ones. With “Cooking Safety Starts with You” as the central theme, BCHHSA is leading the charge in promoting safe cooking practices and overall fire safety awareness. By following simple guidelines and utilizing the recommended online resources, everyone can contribute to a safer community and a brighter future for Bladen County.
For more information about Fire Prevention Week and cooking safety, visit www.fpw.org. To engage kids in learning about fire safety, explore sparky.org for interactive and educational content. Together, we can make a difference in preventing fires and saving lives.
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