This is the third in a series of daily FIRE FACTS provided by the Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of State Fire Marshal in conjunction with National Fire Prevention Week (October 5-11, 1997).

This year's theme is "Know When to Go . . . React Fast to Fire." It focuses on encouraging the public to be prepared to act decisively when a fire occurs. Every household should plan and practice a Home Fire Escape Drill which identifies two escape routes from every room in the event of a fire. One escape route should identify the normal route through hallways and stairways and the alternate route should designate the use of windows or the roof when the normal route is blocked. Each family member should then go to a designated meeting space outside. Do not go back inside for any reason!

Twenty four Ohioans died last year in fires caused by smoking. If you have smokers in your home, you need to be particularly careful. Provide smokers with large, deep, sturdy ashtrays and make sure that the ashtrays are emptied frequently. Douse the ashes with water before placing them in the trash. Be sure to check upholstery and cushions for smoldering butts before leaving home or going to sleep. Also, be sure to keep matches and lighters away from children by storing them in high, heard-to-reach places and out of sight.

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