Mercer County Marks National Fire Prevention Week With Drills, Family Fun Day

Editor's Note: The following is a news release that was issued by the Mercer County administration.

Fire Prevention Week is recognized nationally this year from Oct. 9-15, and Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes urges families and businesses in Mercer County to make it a point each year to participate in The Great American Fire Drill.

“I encourage you to practice your fire escape plans several times each year, but if that is not possible, use Fire Prevention Week and The Great American Fire Drill as your reminder that the more familiar you are with your family’s plan, the better your chances of escaping a fire,” Hughes said.

Creating a plan is simple. Draw your home’s layout on graph paper and mark the exits. Show family members various escape routes, pick a central meeting place, set a date and practice! Post your escape plan prominently, such as on the refrigerator or bulletin board. Use the following link to create your family’s escape route: http://www.greatamericanfiredrill.org/pdfs/EscapePlanGrid.pdf

Go to www.sparky.org and click on the “parents” page to register your family participation in The Great American Fire Drill and to obtain fun activities for children.

Also in October, Hughes invites people of all ages to come out for the Annual Family Fun and Safety Day, Oct. 16 from noon to 3 p.m. at Mercer County Park, near the West Picnic and Marina areas.

This event gives the public an up-close view of a variety of emergency response vehicles and fire trucks, including the Sheriff's Mobile Communications Vehicle. Families also can obtain free information on fire prevention and crime prevention from the Mercer County Firemen's Association and Mercer County Sheriff's Office.

Along with tours of fire engines and other emergency vehicles and the chance to meet sheriff's officers and firefighters, attendees also will be treated to music from a live DJ, face painting, a magic show, pony rides, a canine demonstration, games and fingerprinting for children. There is no charge for admission and activities; however, food and refreshments are available for a nominal fee. 

The event is sponsored by the Mercer County Sheriff's Office, the Mercer County Emergency Communications Office, the Mercer County Firemen's Association, and the Mercer County Commission on Abused, Neglected, and Missing Children.