Fire Prevention Month

October is Fire Prevention Month

The Hagerstown Fire Department works in our community every day to prevent the 911 call and avoid fire-related dangers in our community. When the unthinkable happens in your home, we want you to be prepared. This year's national theme for fire prevention month is "Plan and Practice your Escape." If a fire starts in your home, every second counts when it comes to getting you and your family to safety. The Hagerstown Fire Department encourages you to develop a fire escape plan with your family, so we want to provide you with the necessary tools and tips in partnership with the NFPA.

  • Draw a map of your home by using our grid in English (PDF) or Spanish (PDF) with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
  • Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
  • Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
  • Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.
  • Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.

If you have more questions about planning your family's home fire escape plan, contact the Hagerstown Fire Department at 301-790-2476.