Oct 6 West Deptford Fire Department Hosts Fire Expo

To celebrate Fire Prevention Week, West Deptford Fire Department invites community members to join them for a free, all ages open house on Sunday, October 6. The event runs from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Thorofare Hall 61 Firehouse Rd., West Deptford, NJ 08086.

At the event, members of the community can meet their local firefighters, watch live demonstrations such as vehicle rescue, enjoy free refreshments and learn more about volunteering with the fire department.

“This year we’re promoting the Fire Prevention Week Theme ‘Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!’” said Assistant Chief David Raso. “The campaign works to educate everyone about the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home.”

Special guest Sparky the fire dog and local firefighters will share smoke alarm safety tips, highlighting this year’s theme, which reminds everyone the importance of smoke alarms. Smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by more than half (54 percent), according to NFPA. Once a smoke alarm sounds, occupants could have as little as two minutes to get out of a home safely. Working smoke alarms provide early warning allowing safe exit to get outside quickly.

“Our alarms go off and residents can count on West Deptford Fire Department firefighters to answer the emergency call and keep them safe,” said Chief Anthony Ferriola. “But don’t forget to protect yourself, your family and your home from fire by following the safety tips provided.”

West Deptford Fire Department promotes these key smoke alarm safety tips and guidelines:

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area (like a hallway), and on each level (including the basement) of the home.
• Ensure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pressing the test button.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

While smoke alarms are the first line of defense in a home fire, the community counts on volunteers of West Deptford Fire Department to keep them safe. Volunteers receive all the necessary training and gear they need to respond to emergency calls at no cost to them. Those interested can volunteer as a firefighter, junior firefighter or fire police. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit: www.westdeptfordfirefighter.org