If you woke up to a fire in your home, how much time do you think you would have to get to safety? According to the nonprofit National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), one-third of American households thought they would have at least 6 minutes before a fire in their home would become life threatening. Unfortunately, the available is often much less.

That’s why the Billerica Fire Department is teaming up with NFPA during Fire Prevention Week, October 7-13, 2012, to host their annual Open House! The open house will be Saturday, October 13th, 2012 from 11am – 2pm at Billerica Fire Headquarters, 8 Good Street.

Through this family-oriented event, Billerica residents can meet their firefighters, see the newest fire trucks, and learn ways to keep your family safe from fire. The first 100 children will also receive a free Billerica Fire hat! This year’s theme is “Have Two Ways Out!” and focuses on the importance of fire escape planning.

We hope that the upcoming open house motivates Billerica residents to start thinking more proactively about home fire safety. “Home fires can and do happen. When the smoke alarm sounds, it’s too late to start making a plan. People need to be prepared for the fire well beforehand.” says Phil Tammaro, Billerica Fire Department SAFE Coordinator.

To learn more about “Fire Prevention Week” visit NFPA’s website at: www.firepreventionweek.org

All are invited and encouraged to come by for this event! Any questions can be directed to Phil Tammaro through our Headquarters @ 978-671-0940.