48th CES torches Fire Prevention Week Published Oct. 16, 2017 By Airman 1st Class Christopher S. Sparks 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- Firefighters from the 48th Civil Engineer Squadron set out to inform Liberty Airmen and their families about basic fire safety tips and techniques during National Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 9-13. During the week, the fire department pushed their message, "Every second counts—plan two ways out." The Airmen showcased a fire engine, a smoke trailer, displayed various tools, and taught proper techniques to evacuate a smoke filled room for Lakenheath Elementary students. “This national campaign is to make sure that all of our schools and the public populous in the United States and on Department of Defense installations have the ability to understand the message that we’re publishing for that year,” said the 48th CES Fire Prevention NCO in charge. The firefighters also set up informational booths at the commissary and the base exchange, where they lobbied for the biggest takeaway they want people to gain from Fire Prevention Week: the safety message. “This year is just about getting out of your house and having two ways out,” he said. “Last year it was smoke detectors … making sure folks are checking and changing their batteries to make sure they work.” According to the National Fire Prevention Association, here are the key messages from this year’s campaign: •Draw a map of your home by using a grid with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit. •Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out. •Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them. •Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find. •Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. •Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building. For more information on Fire Prevention Week, visit: http://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Campaigns/Fire-Prevention-Week.