Red Cross, Denham Springs Fire Department host Fire Prevention Fair to help families stay safe

DENHAM SPRINGS, La. (Louisiana First) — The American Red Cross of Louisiana and the Denham Springs Fire Department are teaming up this weekend to help families prevent what experts call the nation’s most common disaster — home fires.

“So we respond as the Red Cross. We respond to 65,000 disasters a year, but the majority of them are home fires,” said Red Cross representative Damyionne Brown. “And it actually takes the lives of seven people within a week.”

Many of those fires happen right here in the Capital Region. That’s why the Red Cross and the Denham Springs Fire Department are hosting a Fire Prevention Fair during National Fire Prevention Week.

“This event is a fire prevention and safety event,” Brown said. “We have different local vendors coming out, and families can take part in demonstrations like hands-on CPR.”

The event will also include free training on how to use a fire extinguisher, test smoke alarms, and create home escape plans. Attendees can also learn about the dangers of overcharging lithium-powered devices — a growing fire hazard in homes across Louisiana.

“The main thing we see is that there are no working smoke alarms in homes,” said Brown. “People don’t realize that smoke alarms actually save lives.”

The Fire Prevention Fair is set for 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Denham Springs Fire Department, located at 930 Government St.

Families can enjoy hands-on demos, a kids’ corner, and visits from community partners, including Raising Cane’s, Firehouse Subs, SERVPRO of Livingston Parish, and Acadia EMS.

Officials encourage residents who can’t attend to still take action at home — check smoke detectors, keep a fire extinguisher nearby, and have an escape plan.

“Pack a ‘go’ bag and move fast,” Brown said. “Two minutes could save your life. You can never be too prepared.”

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