Fire Prevention Starts With Being Prepared

Fire Prevention Week is an important reminder that fire safety starts with preparation. As a former first responder, I have seen firsthand how quickly an emergency can unfold and how crucial it is to be prepared before that moment comes.

While our firefighters and emergency responders are there when we need them, there are also steps every household can take to help prevent fires and protect their families. That includes ensuring smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly, having a plan for getting out of the home and making sure everyone in the household knows what to do in an emergency.

Fire safety is especially important for young children, older adults and residents who may need additional assistance during an emergency. Taking the time to prepare now can make a significant difference when seconds matter.

Here in Rockland County, the Department of Health’s Healthy Neighborhoods Program provides free services to help residents identify and address health and safety concerns in their homes. The program offers free smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, products to help reduce asthma triggers, child safety products and radon testing. These are important tools that are available to residents to help make their homes safer and healthier.

During the week of October 4, the Healthy Neighborhoods Program will be conducting fire safety outreach at the New City Fire Department’s annual open house. I encourage residents to stop by, speak with the professionals who dedicate their lives to keeping us safe and learn more about the resources available to help protect your home and family.

Our firefighters and emergency responders put themselves in harm’s way every day to protect the people of Rockland County. Having worked alongside first responders, I know how important their training and preparedness are when an emergency occurs. We can do our part by taking fire prevention seriously and making sure our families are prepared before an emergency happens.

This Fire Prevention Week, I encourage every Rockland County resident to take a few minutes to think about fire safety, make sure your household is prepared and take advantage of the resources available right here in our county. Taking these simple steps now can make all the difference when an emergency occurs and could ultimately save a life, whether it is your own or that of a loved one.

For more information or to learn about available home health and safety assessments, visit the Rockland County Department of Health’s Healthy Neighborhoods Program website or email healthyneighborhoods@co.rockland.ny.us.