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 a safe and quick exit.

That is why the Gordons Corner Fire Company is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week (FPW) for more than 100 years — to promote this year’s FPW campaign, “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!” The campaign, which runs from Oct. 6-12, works to educate everyone about the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home.

​​Protect what matters most: Smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by more than half, according to NFPA. The Gordons Corner Fire Company encourages all residents to embrace the 2024 Fire Prevention Week theme, “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!”

Gordons Corner Fire Company 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 smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

In honor of this year’s FPW theme, Gordons Corner will visit local schools and educate the public on the life-saving, fire prevention knowledge that they can leverage to protect themselves and their families.

While smoke alarms are the first line of defense in a home fire, the community counts on volunteers of Gordons Corner Fire Company to keep them safe. There are many ways to give back to the community as a volunteer.

“Joining Gordons Corner Fire Company allows you to meet amazing people, learn from others and help your community in a unique way. I have had nothing but positive experiences since joining,” said Sam Moran, a volunteer firefighter since 2020.

No prior experience is needed to join; Training and gear are provided to all volunteers at no cost in the following roles:

Active Firefighter– Train to fight fires, respond to emergencies, and participate in vehicle extractions, as well as ice water rescue. You’ll train with state-of-the-art equipment and a team of experienced and professional firefighters. Must be 18 or older.

Junior Firefighter– Gain experience, earn community service hours, and train under supervision to develop the skills necessary to become a certified firefighter at 18. Must be 16 or older.

Fire Police– Direct traffic and crowds at the scene of an emergency, assist other first responders as needed, and participate in community and recruitment events.

Auxiliary– Help with fundraising and assist at recruitment and community events.

To learn more about how volunteering with the fire company, visit www.JoinGordonsCornerFire.org