by: Mayla Ashford
Fire Prevention Week is October 4–October 10. Why is this week so important? Because fire prevention saves lives, protects homes, and helps prevent serious injuries. It is a time to remind families and communities about the importance of fire safety and being prepared before an emergency happens.
On Monday, September 28, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., a fire safety workshop was held at the Winston County Self Help Cooperative (WCSHC) Campus. Val Jernigan, Assistant Chief of the High Point Fire District, served as the speaker for the evening. He was short and to the point when discussing the importance of following fire safety tips and being prepared.
Chief Jernigan’s first question to the group was, “How many smoke detectors should be in your home?” A good rule of thumb is to have smoke detectors throughout the home, including inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas, and on every level of the home. Smoke detectors should also be placed near areas where fires may start, such as the kitchen and living areas. Make sure to test smoke detectors regularly and that the batteries work.
Another important safety tip is to have a fire safety escape plan. Every household should know how to get out of the home quickly and safely if a fire occurs and it should be practiced on a regular bases. Whenever possible, make sure each room has at least two exits, such as a door and a window. Families should also establish a safe meeting area outside the home where everyone can gather and be accounted for. Once outside, never go back inside a burning home.
Chief Jernigan also discussed using extension cords. Extension cords are not necessarily bad, but they should be used properly and only when needed. It is best to use three-pronged extension cords and avoid overloading outlets or extension cords with too many appliances.
Participants were also reminded to be careful with appliances and devices that contain lithium-ion batteries. These batteries can become extremely hot and, if they catch fire, can be difficult to extinguish. Take damaged, swollen, overheating, or improperly charging batteries seriously. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when charging and using devices with lithium-ion batteries. Chief Jernigan encouraged everyone to use the recommended charger for each device and avoid using chargers not designed for the device.
He also encouraged participants to make phone charging a safety habit. Charge your phone about two to three hours before bed rather than charging it while you sleep. Never leave your phone charging while you are asleep. A consistent charging routine can reduce potential fire hazards and make safe charging a habit.
Fire safety begins with preparation. Taking a few minutes to check smoke detectors, create an escape plan, identify two exits from each room, and establish a family meeting place can make a major difference during an emergency.
