Smoke Alert Day on Friday the 13th: Simplifying Life-Saving Measures in VdF-NRW
Fire safety is a crucial concern for everyone, and this month, the nationwide Smoke Alarm Day aims to raise awareness about the importance of having smoke alarms in homes.
According to Maria Koch, Brand Protection Education and Awareness Officer at the Association of Fire Brigades in NRW, regularly tested and functioning smoke alarms can significantly reduce the risk of fires endangering human lives. Experience reports from fire victims have been collected for this year's Smoke Alarm Day, underscoring the potential impact of these devices.
Smoke alarms should be checked for functionality according to the manufacturer's instructions and at least once a year. They should be installed in all bedrooms, children's rooms, corridors leading to the staircase or to the outdoors. If the escape route is blocked, stay in a smoke-free room, close the door, and make yourself visible at the window or balcony.
Christoph Dohr, Head of the Damage Prevention & Risk Assessment Department at Provinzial Insurance, emphasises the crucial difference a smoke alarm can make in a fire. Smoke alarms are now legally required in all federal states, at least for new buildings and often also for existing apartments.
On Smoke Alarm Day, fire departments, insurance companies, and safety organisations join forces to reduce the number of fire victims. Rely on the help of the fire department - your safety is the top priority. Quick and calm action is crucial in case of fire. In an emergency, call the fire department at 112 immediately.
Further information and advice can be obtained from the local fire department or at www.feuerwehrverband.nrw/verband/themen/brandschutzerziehung-und-brandschutzaufklaerung. For more information about the Association of Fire Brigades in NRW, contact Maria Marschner at [email protected] or visit their website at www.vdf.nrw.
This year's Smoke Alarm Day's theme is "Smoke Alarms Save Lives." The reports and resources can be found at www.rauchmelder-lebensretter.de. Remember, your safety and the safety of your family is paramount, so take the necessary steps to ensure you have a functioning smoke alarm in your home.
