As the colder months draw near, residents of Tennessee are being reminded to take fire safety seriously by avoiding behaviors that could jeopardize their safety and that of emergency responders. In any season, functional smoke alarms serve as the primary defense against house fires, making them essential for every homeowner. To combat the risk of home fires, the State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) has launched the “Get Alarmed, Tennessee!” campaign, which aims to enhance safety measures and ultimately save lives.
This winter, families are encouraged to install working smoke alarms and follow several straightforward fire safety practices. It is crucial to maintain a safe distance between combustible items such as furniture, rugs, and other flammable materials and heat sources like wood stoves and space heaters, ensuring they are at least three feet apart. Additionally, when it comes to holiday decorations, it is important to keep Christmas trees away from flames, candles, heating devices, and other sources of heat. Regularly watering the Christmas tree can help prevent it from drying out, reducing the risk of fire.
Moreover, families should take the time to rehearse their fire escape plan, ensuring that everyone knows at least two exits from each room in the house. Before leaving any room or going to bed, it is essential to turn off heaters, and it is critical to never use an oven as a means of heating the home. For more information about the “Get Alarmed, Tennessee!” initiative and to obtain a free smoke alarm, residents can visit the official website at https://www.tn.gov/…/prevention…/get-alarmed-tn.html. By taking these precautions, Tennesseans can help safeguard their homes and loved ones during the winter months.