This week is Fire Prevention Week in North America.
Locally, the Galesburg Fire Department is spreading the word about fire prevention and safety.
Fire Marshal Randy Hovind says this year’s theme, through the National Fire Protection Association, is “here the beep when you sleep.”
Hovind tells WGIL, that message means the more smoke detectors the better.
“They recommend that you have a working smoke detector in every bedroom in your house,” says Hovind. “The state law does require that you have one near the bedroom sleeping areas on every floor , but they are saying you should go a little further and have one in each of your bedrooms.”
Hovind says GFD wants to remind residents to change batteries in their smoke detectors twice a year so they function properly.
He adds that the department will continue spreading that awareness this month in schools.
“Fire Prevention Week has kind of turned into Fire Prevention month. We try to go to all of the middle schools and give the message to the kids, as far as making sure they have smoke detectors in the home. It’s fire safety tips, kitchen tips–just general fire safety knowledge.”
GFD is also aiding area schools with fire drills. They will continue that work throughout the month as well.
