A New Year and a Call to Action: Fire Safety and Preparedness in 2025

As 2025 begins, we are reminded of the challenges many communities face, including the devastating fires currently impacting the Los Angeles area.  Events like these highlight the bravery of our firefighters, first responders, and other public service workers.  Every day these individuals risk their lives to protect families, homes, and communities.   To these heroes, we offer you our deepest thanks and gratitude for your continued selflessness and courage.

While we can not eliminate the threat of fires completely, there are steps we can take to prepare ourselves and our families if one where to break out.  Having a plan and knowing what to do during an emergency can save lives and make all the difference.  Let’s start the year off by talking about ways you can stay safe during a fire and how communities can prepare for the unexpected.

What to Do if a Fire Breaks Out

When there is a fire nearby every second count and knowing how to respond can save lives.  Here are the key steps to take if a fire every breaks out.   

1. Say Calm and Move Fast: As soon as flames or smoke is noticed, focus on getting people out safely.  Do not waste time collecting belongings or investigating the fire.
2. Alert Your Household: Make sure your entire household is aware of the fire.  Knock on doors, yell, and double-check to ensure that nobody gets left behind.
3. Avoid Breathing Smoke: Keep low to the ground as you excit to reduce the risk of inhaling smoke.
4. Call for Help: Once outside and safe, call 911 and provide as much information as possible about your location and the fire. 
5. Stay Safe: never re-enter the house for pets or personal items and get as far away from the fire if necessary, especially on a windy day.

Packing a “Go Bag”

Having a pre-packed go bag can reduce stress during an emergency evacuation.  Your bag should be portable, light enough to carry or lift into a vehicle, and easily accessible.  Here are some things to include:

• Important Documents: Bring copies of identification, insurance paperwork, and medical records
• Basic Supplies: Pack a flashlight, batteries, phone charger, extra car keys, and some cash or cashier’s checks.
• Food and Water: Include non-perishable snacks and enough water to last at least three days.
• Medications & First Aid: Any necessary prescriptions, a basic first aid kit, and necessary medical devices.
• Personal Items: A change of clothes, spare glasses, a list of emergency contacts, and comfort items for children or pets can be invaluable.

If you have extra time, consider grabbing irreplaceable keepsakes like family photo albums and hard drives or computers with important files.

When to Evacuate

If local officials issue an evacuation, act immediately.  Fires can spread faster than you might think, especially during times of high winds.  Waiting to leave could jeopardize your safety and the safety of your family.  Even if no formal evacuation order has bene issued but you feel unsafe, trust your instincts and leave.

How Inflatable Fire Education Houses Can Help Prepare Communities

Education is one of the most important tools we have to prevent tragedies and can help save lives.  They can also ensure a community is prepared when an emergency happens.  Inflatable fire education houses make learning fire safety engaging and interactive.

These tools can be used at schools and various events around the community to help participants practice escape routes, learn how to spot and prevent fire hazards, and simulate evacuating.  This interactive approach to fire safety makes the lessons stick, ensuring families are better prepared when and if an emergency strikes.

Learn more about our inflatable fire education house and how they can be used to prepare communities for emergencies on our website.

Making 2025 a Year of Safety

The start of 2025 is a great time to focus on safety.  Whether it is creating a fire escape plan, packing a go bag, or attending a fire safety event, when it comes to emergencies small actions now can make a big difference then.

As we reflect on the challenges and heroism of those battling fires in Los Angeles and beyond, let us commit to do our part.  With the right knowledge and preparation, we can protect our families and support the incredible work of our first responders.

Stay safe, stay prepared, and make 2025 a year of fire safety and awareness.