5 Safety Tips for National Fire Prevention Week

This week local fire companies such as in Hellertown , which continues through Oct. 15.

With safety in mind, the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley is participating in the observation of this important annual event by reminding residents to stay safe by "taking simple steps like installing smoke detectors and developing and practicing a fire escape plan," according to Cordelia E. Miller, director of emergency services for the organization.

"Everyone at home, school and work should know what to do when they hear the sound of a smoke alarm," Miller said in a news release.

To help you stay safe, here are five things to know about fire prevention, courtesy of the Lehigh Valley Red Cross:

• Smoke alarms should be installed on each level of a home and in all bedrooms.
• Batteries should be replaced in smoke detectors at least once a year. Alarms should be tested monthly by pressing the test button.
• Each household should have an emergency escape plan to follow in case of fire. The plan should be practiced at least twice a year.
• Businesses should also be prepared for dealing with fires. To complete a free online assessment of your business's fire prevention readiness visit www.readyrating.org.
• Visit www.redcross.org/homefires for additional safety tips.

In 2010, the Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley responded to 92 home fires and helped 121 families, according to the news release.

For more information, visit www.redcrosslv.org.