Fire Station 13 Hosting Open House During Fire Prevention Week

San Diego Fire-Rescue Department and the San Diego Fire Rescue Foundation are hosting several open houses, including at Fire Station 13 in La Jolla, during Fire Prevention Week (October 7-13) to promote “Have Two Ways Out!” 

In 2010, U.S. fire departments responded to 369,500 home structure fires that caused 13,350 civilian injuries, 2,640 civilian deaths and $6.9 billiion in damage.

“Fire is unpredictable and moves faster than most people realize,” said San Diego Fire Marshal Doug Perry in an invitation to the open houses. “Having a tried and true escape plan with two ways out is essential to ensuring your family’s safety should fire break out in your home.” 

The open house at Fire Station 13 will be Thursday, Oct. 11 from 1 to 7 p.m. Stop by during lunch, after school, after work or after dinner for both fun and informational activities. Fire Station 13 is located across the street from La Jolla High at 809 Nautilus St.

SDFD officials said that open house activities will vary from station to station and include fire station tours, interactive demonstrations, CPR demonstrations and firefighter exercises such as rappelling. Also learn the importance of fire escape planning and practice, as well as the power of prevention at the open houses.

Plus, there will stickers, magnets, hats, informational brochures and home fire escape plans, courtesy the San Diego Fire Rescue Foundation, San Diego Gas and Electric and HarBro Construction and Consulting.

SDFD recommends the following tips for planning your family’s escape:

• Make a map of your home. Mark a door and a window that can be used to get out of every room.
• Choose a meeting place outside in front of your home. This is where everyone can meet once they’ve escaped. Draw a picture of your outside meeting place on your escape plan.
• Help children memorize their street name and number. Make sure your house number is clearly visible from the street.
• Have a grown-up sound the smoke alarm and practice your escape plan with everyone living in your home.
• Keep your escape plan on the refrigerator and remind grown-ups to have your family practice the plan twice a year or whenever anyone in your home celebrates a birthday.