Heed the Beeps!
FIRE PREVENTION WEEK OCT. 3 -9
Fire Prevention Week Focuses on Sounds of Fire Safety The Westerville Division of Fire (WFD) and the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) want residents to “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety” this Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 3-9). The campaign places equal emphasis on ensuring those who have trouble hearing or who are unable to hear have an understanding of the warning signals available to them. In 2020, when many professionals and students were sent home to work remotely, more people began tuning in to the different chirps and tones emitting from their warning systems. It’s from this realization that NFPA organizers say they decided to emphasize the importance of understanding the audible warnings from carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke alarms.
“CO and smoke detectors, when functioning properly, are designed to give you some sort of an indication if something is wrong. Whether it’s reminding you to change the batteries, inspect the device or that there is truly carbon monoxide or smoke present, these indicators always mean you need to stop what you’re doing and pay attention,” said WFD Chief Brian Miller. “Don’t chance it. These devices save lives.” NFPA asks residents to “keep an ear out” for the following list of sounds: •
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A continuous set of three loud beeps—beep, beep, beep—means smoke or fire. Get out, call 9-1-1, and stay out. A single chirp every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be changed. Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced.
REMINDER: All smoke alarms must be replaced after 10 years. Chief Miller says smoke and CO alarms must meet the needs of all in your home, especially those with disabilities and adaptive needs. Testing and regular battery replacement are essential. Learn more about Fire Prevention Week and find resources for individuals who would benefit from adaptive equipment at www.westerville.org/fpw.
CITIZEN’S ACADEMY
WESTERVILLE CITIZEN’S ACADEMY Returns Next Spring
After pandemic-related pauses, the Westerville Citizen’s Academy (WCA) returns for spring 2022.
the community on a Board or Commission. Applicants for canceled classes will be given first priority.
Offered once a year, this eight-week program is based on the popular Westerville academy programs from the Westerville Divisions of Police and Fire.
Visit www.westerville.org/wca to apply. A schedule for the 2022 will be posted when available.
Each week, participants take part in a three-hour class (6-9 p.m. on Thursday nights) led by Westerville staff members. Classes are hands-on and interactive, including activities like operating equipment, facility tours, demonstrations and games. Highlights include bucket truck lifts with the Westerville Electric Division, operating snow plow trucks with Westerville Public Service and what always turns out to be a competitive and lively game of “Jeopardy” with the City’s Finance Division. Participants have enjoyed the opportunity to meet their neighbors and learn how public programs and services are managed and delivered. All residents living within corporate City limits are invited to participate, especially those who have an interest in serving
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WESTERVILLE PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT • (614) 901-6500 • www.wester ville.org
