🔥 Fire Prevention Week: Keeping Families Safe in Volusia County
Practical tips, local fire department resources, and nationwide safety tools to protect your family.
During Fire Prevention Week, we’re reminded of the importance of keeping our families safe from fire. With a bit of preparation and practical know-how, we can create a safer home environment for the ones we love most.
👨👩👧 Fire Prevention Tips for Families with Young Children
- Install Smoke Alarms Properly: Place alarms on every level of your home, especially near bedrooms. Test monthly and replace batteries twice a year.
- Create a Family Fire Escape Plan: Map out a simple escape plan and practice it regularly. Choose a safe outdoor meeting spot.
- Childproof Against Fire Hazards: Keep matches, lighters, and candles out of reach. Use outlet covers and secure cords.
- Teach Fire Safety Early: Explain dangers in an age-appropriate way. Show kids what to avoid and how to call for help.
- Supervise in the Kitchen: Don't leave children unattended while cooking. Keep them away from hot surfaces.
- Store Flammable Items Safely: Keep gasoline, lighter fluid, and aerosols outside the home, away from ignition sources.
- Use Heaters Safely: Keep heaters at least 3 feet from curtains or bedding. Turn off before bed or when leaving the room.
- Teach "Stop, Drop, and Roll": Kids should know to stop, drop, and roll if clothes catch fire.
- Crawl Low in Smoke: Practice how to stay under the smoke to breathe safely when escaping.
- Sleepover Safety: Ask if a friend's home has working smoke alarms and a clear escape plan.
📍 Local Fire Safety Resources in Volusia County
Many fire departments offer FREE smoke alarms, safety workshops, and fire station tours. Contact your local department:
- Daytona Beach Fire Department – (386) 671-4000
- Port Orange Fire Rescue – (386) 506-5900
- Deltona Fire Rescue – (386) 575-6908
- DeLand Fire Department – (386) 626-7332
- Edgewater Fire Rescue – (386) 424-2415
- New Smyrna Beach Fire Department – (386) 424-2210
- Orange City Fire Department – (386) 775-5474
- Volusia County Fire Rescue – (386) 736-5940
🌎 Nationwide Fire Safety Resources
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) – Fire safety guides & Fire Prevention Week resources.
- Sparky.org – Interactive Fire Safety Games and Activities for Kids.
- U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) – Preparedness Tools and Tips for Families.
- Firewise USA – Community wildfire safety resources.
- Safe Kids Worldwide – Fire safety tips by age group.
