October 15, 2023

As Fire Chief for the Rochester VFD, Mike Mamone knows the importance of being prepared for a house fire so everyone can stay safe.

October has been designated as Fire Prevention Month to help raise fire safety awareness and build safer communities. Each year, organizations like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and local fire departments across the country share safety information with school students, community organizations and other members of the public to teach people how to protect their families and homes in the event of a fire.

“As Fire Chief for the Rochester (Pa.) Volunteer Fire Department, I have seen firsthand the devastation that a house fire can cause,” said Mike Mamone, manager, Safety Operations. “Losing your home and your possessions through a fire is one of the worst experiences a family can go through. I’d like our employees to know that there are simple steps you can take now to make sure you’re prepared not only during Fire Prevention Month, but throughout the entire year.”

According to Mike, everyone can practice whole home safety by following these tips:

• Install smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors throughout your home – including the basement. The alarms work around the clock and can provide an early alert in case of a fire or CO event, helping to give everyone time to safely escape.
• Maintain the detectors by testing them regularly, changing the batteries every six months and replacing the devices every 10 years. (A good reminder is to replace alarm batteries when we change the clocks in the fall and the spring.)
• Make sure fire extinguishers are easily accessible on every level of your home – especially in the kitchen and garage – to help stop small fires from causing more damage. Also, ensure you know how to operate a fire extinguisher before needing to use one.
• Create a fire escape plan that includes escape routes and a muster point away from the home where first responders can see you – then make sure you practice the plan.
• Teach children how to escape on their own, in case you can’t help, and make sure they know how to dial 911 for assistance.
• Never leave the kitchen unattended while cooking.
• Close your bedroom door – it could save your life.

“Seconds can be the difference between life and death in the event of a fire,” added Mike. “I encourage all of our employees to make FirstEnergy’s core value of Safety personal by installing reliable smoke and CO detectors around your home and taking other proactive steps to help keep you and your loved ones safe in the event of a fire or CO emergency.”

Did You Know?

In 1922, the NFPA named the second week of October Fire Prevention Week to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Although we still celebrate Fire Prevention Week, the event has grown to include the entire month of October as communities work with their local fire departments to spread the word about fire safety.