State Fire Marshal promotes fire safety

State Fire Marshal’s information

Ohio Department of Commerce Director Jacqueline T. Williams has announced the kickoff of the Safe & Sound campaign in an effort to reduce fires and fire deaths in Ohio.  So far in 2015, 97 people have been killed in fires.

“That’s 97 too many.  Regardless of age, background or where we live, these deadly fires could affect any one of us,” Williams said. “Until we come together to prevent these tragedies, this number will only continue to climb.”

Safe & Sound will target fires caused by heat sources in the winter months. Educating Ohioans to the dangers and risks of these fires will be the focus of the campaign. The State Fire Marshal’s office will be working with local fire departments to get out into communities and make an impact on reducing fire fatality numbers.

“Ohio’s firefighters have a strong influence in their areas,” State Fire Marshal Larry L. Flowers said. “That’s why I am making an appeal to our state’s fire service to double their efforts when it comes to fire prevention and education. They will make the difference.”

Other state agencies will be joining the Department of Commerce and State Fire Marshal’s office to fight this trend.  The Ohio Departments of Aging, Agriculture, Public Safety, Development Services Agency and the Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing will be taking an active role in Safe & Sound.  The American Red Cross will also assist with the campaign.

“We are excited to continue working alongside our local fire departments and community partners to reduce fire fatalities by going door-to-door installing smoke alarms and providing potentially lifesaving preparedness information,” said Matt Bertram, Regional CEO, Ohio Buckeye Region, American Red Cross.

To learn more about preventing and preparing for a fire, visit the State Fire Marshal’s website at www.com.ohio.gov/fire.