Fire Prevention

Fire Prevention Week October 9-15, 2022

The Waterville and District Fire Department is committed to our community and everyone’s safety.  Our goal is to educate and promote fire safety to people of all ages.  Knowledge is power and our safety is paramount. The department continues to promote fire safety through presentations educating organizations for all ages and offers tours of the fire department as well upon request.

When a house fire starts, children can become very afraid and confused. They may not understand what is happening or how they should react. With as little as two minutes to escape unharmed, there is not enough time to plan a safe escape route when the alarm sounds. Therefore, it is important for parents to maintain working smoke alarms in the home, teach children what to do in case of a fire, and regularly practice a home fire escape plan.

Fire Prevention Tips:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the house and outside every sleeping area.
• Parents should also install smoke alarms in each bedroom.
• Test the smoke alarms monthly to check that they are working. This will also help children become familiar with the sound of the alarm.
• Develop and practice a fire escape plan at least two times a year (during the day and at night)with all ages of the family.
• Make sure the plan includes which adult will help each young child escape safely.
• Show children how to crawl low to the ground with their mouths covered if there is smoke and to feel for a hot door before exiting a room.
• Teach children never to hide when there is fire or they are scared.
• Teach children to NEVER return to a burning building regardless of the reason.
• Teach children to STOP, DROP, and ROLL if their clothing catches on fire.

Teach everyone that when in doubt…CALL 911 BETTER TO BE SAFE !

Please feel free to contact the Fire Department to arrange for a fire safety presentation or a tour of the fire hall.