Smoke alarms are your first line of defense. But only if they’re working.

• Install one on every level, including bedrooms and hallways.
• Test monthly—push the button and listen for the beep.
• Change batteries at least once a year or when chirping.
• Replace alarms older than 10 years.

A house fire can go from smoke to unlivable in under two minutes. You need to be ready.

• Draw a floor plan with two exits per room.
• Pick a meeting place outside—mailbox, tree, etc.
• Practice the plan day and night, twice a year.
• Teach children to stay low and crawl under smoke.

Only use extinguishers on small, contained fires if you have a clear exit.

• Use the PASS method:
  • Pull the pin
  • Aim at the base of the fire
  • Squeeze the handle
  • Sweep side to side
• Place extinguishers in kitchens, garages, and near heat sources.
• If in doubt—get out and call 911.

The holidays should sparkle—not go up in smoke.

• Water real Christmas trees daily—dry trees can ignite in seconds.
• Inspect lights for frayed wires, broken bulbs, or loose connections.
• Don't overload outlets or daisy-chain extension cords.
• Blow out candles before leaving a room or going to bed.
• Keep decorations away from heat sources like fireplaces or space heaters.

Cold weather brings hidden fire and health risks—especially when heating equipment is in use.

• Keep space heaters at least 3 feet from anything that can burn.
• Never use the oven to heat your home.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors and test them monthly.
• Have your chimney cleaned and inspected each year.
• Know how to shut off your water if pipes freeze or burst.

Storms and outages come with their own safety hazards—especially when the power goes out.

• Use flashlights instead of candles during a power outage.
• Keep generators outside, at least 20 feet from doors and windows.
• Assume all downed power lines are live—call 911 immediately.
• Have a backup power source for medical devices.
• Charge phones and flashlights in advance when severe weather is forecasted.

Backyard fun should never end in a 911 call.

• Keep grills at least 10 feet away from your house, deck, and overhangs.
• Never grill inside a garage or under a covered patio.
• Let coals cool completely before disposing in a metal container.
• Supervise fire pit use at all times—especially with kids or guests.
• Keep a hose or bucket of water nearby during outdoor burns.

Education saves lives—especially when started early.

• Teach kids to "Stop, Drop, and Roll" if their clothes catch fire.
• Explain the sound and purpose of smoke alarms so they aren’t afraid.
• Practice fire drills at home with children—use visual cues and repetition.
• Assign a safe meeting place outside and make it part of your routine.
• Consider using printable fire safety worksheets and storybooks for younger children.

Mobility, vision, and hearing changes can make emergencies more dangerous for older adults.

• Install smoke alarms with strobe lights and vibrating pads if hearing is impaired.
• Keep eyeglasses, walkers, and other mobility devices near the bed at night.
• Practice escape routes with any assistive devices or physical limitations in mind.
• Use the buddy system—identify someone nearby who can check on you during an emergency.
• Post emergency numbers by every phone and consider a medical alert system.

Teaching kids about fire safety starts early—and we’re proud to be part of that education.

• Our firefighters visit local schools to teach students about smoke alarms, fire drills, and calling 911.
• We participate in school fire drills to reinforce safe evacuation practices.
• Presentations can be tailored by age group—from story time in preschool to more in-depth lessons in middle school.
• We also welcome school field trips to the firehouse, where students can tour the station and meet the crew.

Every home should have working smoke alarms—and if you need help, we’re here.

• We offer free smoke alarms and installation for qualifying residents in Gloucester Township.
• This service is especially helpful for seniors, residents with disabilities, or families facing financial hardship.
• Our team will schedule a visit to check existing alarms, replace outdated units, and provide safety tips while onsite.
• To request assistance, call our Bureau of Fire Prevention or use our online contact form.

We believe in showing up for our community—not just in emergencies, but in everyday moments too.

• We host firehouse open houses, touch-a-truck events, and safety fairs throughout the year.
• CPR and first aid classes are periodically offered for residents looking to get certified or refresh their skills.
• Our team is also available for community group presentations, block party visits, and scout troop tours.
• Follow us on Facebook or check our homepage calendar for upcoming events.

Use these ready-to-print resources to walk through your home and check key safety items. Great for families, caregivers, and landlords.

• 📝 Home Fire Safety Checklist (PDF)
• 🔋 Smoke Alarm Maintenance Guide (PDF)
• 🧯 Carbon Monoxide Fact Sheet (PDF)

Help your household build muscle memory before an emergency happens.

• 📍 Home Fire Escape Plan Template (PDF)
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Family Safety Meeting Worksheet (PDF)

Print these seasonal safety reminders for your home, office, classroom, or community bulletin board.

• ❄️ Winter Heating Safety Flyer (PDF)
• 🕯 Candle Safety Infographic (PDF)
• 🎄 Holiday Fire Safety Tips (PDF)