The Wichita Fire Department is having a number of activities in the community for Fire Prevention Week, to call attention to the need for homes and businesses to have a fire escape plan.
On average, seven people died in a home fire each day in the U.S. from 2012 to 2016. Families are urged to have an escape plan that they can practice four times a year, so they can be ready in case of an emergency.
Wichita firefighters were visiting three senior living centers on Monday to talk about safety. Other activities are planned during the week.
2019 Fire Prevention Week Schedule
“NOT EVERY HERO WEARS A CAPE. PLAN AND PRACTICE YOUR ESCAPE”
Sunday October 6 – Saturday October 12
Monday October 7th – Senior Living Safety
Community Risk Reduction Officers will visit three senior living centers throughout the day to share safety lessons. Messages will include knowing the closest exit to use in case of emergency, how to recognize hazards such as trip and fall hazards.
Tuesday October 8th – 5th Grade Fire Prevention Zoo Adventure
In cooperation with area fire departments and injury prevention coalitions and agencies, area fifth grade students and teachers will have the opportunity to interact with firefighters, practice fire safety measures and view fire equipment while enjoying the Sedgwick County Zoo. This event is scheduled to take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Wednesday October 9th – Fun “N” Learning at the YMCA
North Branch YMCA. Area grade schools, home schools and special needs children are invited to attend this outdoor event where they have the opportunity to interact with the Wichita Fire Department and area injury prevention coalition partners. Youth will be able to experience the department’s Mobile Prevention Experience Unit, enjoy a puppet show, try on firefighter gear and get a close up view of several fire apparatus. Partners in the event include WPD, Safe Kids, EVERGY (WESTAR) and the Kansas Highway Patrol. This event is scheduled to take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the North Branch YMCA, 3330 N. Woodlawn.
Thursday October 10th – Mobile Prevention Experience
A fire prevention caravan dedicated to child safety in the home, the special “smoke house” will visit area schools to instill the importance of smoke alarms in the home and having a fire escape plan, and sleeping with your door closed. Programs are scheduled to start at 9 a.m. with stops at two Wichita area schools.
Friday October 11th – Smoke Alarm Blitz
Do you need a smoke alarm or know someone who does? Wichita Firefighters will be out installing free smoke alarms and/or batteries for people in our community who are in need. Carbon Monoxide detectors are also available. Please call 268-4441, Monday – Friday from 8-5, to schedule an appointment.
Saturday October 12th – Practice and Learn /Visit Your Neighborhood Fire Station
On this last day of Fire Prevention Week, we encourage residents to visit their local station from 1-3 p.m.. Children will be able to go through the updated Practice and Learn (PAL) program, actually learning how to escape a fire in the home. Vist www.wichita.gov/fire for station locations.