With Fire Prevention Week come and gone, the Kamloops Fire Chief hopes that people still work on their fire escape plans year-round.

Mike Adams says he likes to think that people are getting the message to be prepared.

“We’re seeing a decrease in structure fires across the country, primarily because of code, and code enforcement and the big push for prevention and education,” said Adams. “But really the safety begins at home and I really encourage every home owner and parent to take the time and have a fire escape plan and go through it with your family.”

He adds working smoke alarms, a meeting place outside the house, and gathering important documents are all part of a good escape plan.

“Take it seriously. Those small steps as far as preparation and preparedness go a long way in the event of an emergency, and we’ve seen that, and the best things that you can do is plan for it,” said Adams. “Lets hope it never occurs.”

He noted that being prepared can make a huge difference in the event of an emergency.

“Ensure that you have two ways out of your home, an escape. Quite often fires begin in the kitchen and that’s where you can really stay focused on the work you are doing within the kitchen. There’s lots of ignition sources,”Adams said.

“Make sure the dogs and the kids are not in there playing, and talk about it.”