Fire Prevention Week kicks off in Benton Harbor

BENTON HARBOR, Mich.-- The Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association, the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for over 100 years.

This year's campaign is 'Smoke alarms: Make them work for you'.

According to NFPA, smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by more than 54 percent. 

The Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety offers 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.
• Make sure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with
sensory or physical disabilities.
• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month and replace batteries as necessary.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
• Through a partnership with MI-Prevention and the State of Michigan’s Fire Marshals
Office, the Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety can provide all residents with
Smoke Alarms and CO Alarms for their homes.

The Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety is hosting a Community Fire Prevention Open House on Sunday, Oct 13 from 11 A.M.-1 P.M. at the Firehouse, located next to City Hall, 200 E. Wall Street, Benton Harbor, MI