As most people are aware, fire can start quickly and spread rapidly, causing extensive damage and putting lives at risk.

It is because of this volatile, unpredictable nature that the Airdrie Fire Department (AFD) is stressing the importance for all families to know two routes out of their home.

“Have Two Ways Out” is the theme of this year’s Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 7 to 13, during which local firefighters partner with schools and perform home visits in order to encourage fire safety and preparedness.

According to Airdrie Fire Chief Ken Weinberger, being prepared and knowing two ways out of your home can mean the difference between life and death.

“On average, people have three minutes to escape a house fire,” said Weinberger.

“It’s important that families have a family home escape plan that includes two ways out of every room. It’s even more important that families practice their escape plan to ensure everyone knows how to get out safely and quickly.”

To spread this message, this year’s Fire Prevention Week includes the launch of a new preschool fire education program known as “Play Safe! Be Safe!”, designed to teach children ages three to five the basics of fire safety and how to respond in an emergency situation, as well as a partnership with local schools to run fire drills and a “Fire Safety Starts With You!” program for Grade 5 students.

Firefighters are also going door to door in select communities to review the fire safety checklist with residents, checking alarms, escape plans, living areas and garage safety. If homes do not have a working smoke alarm, a new one will be installed or new batteries will be provided.

The week’s activities wrap up with Fire Safety Day at Chinook Winds Fire Station on Oct. 13 from 1 to 4 p.m., which will feature displays and interactive fire safety demonstrations, and a visit from Sparky the Fire Dog.

For more information on Fire Prevention Week, which is observed across Canada and the United States, visit the Alberta Emergency Management Agency’s website at www.aema.alberta.ca

To learn more about how to prevent, detect and escape a fire, visit www.3minutedrill.alberta.ca