• Install working smoke detector on every floor level of your home. Clean and test them at least once a month. Change the battery twice a year. "Change Your Clock Change your Battery."
• If you have an electrical smoke detector replace it with one that has a battery back up. An electrical smoke detector is no good to you if the power goes out.
• Don't over load extension cords or electrical outlets.
• Remember never open a door if the fire is the other side. In a fire, feel the doorknob or the door with the back of your hand. If it is hot use your secondary exit.
• When escaping through heavy smoke stay low to the ground. This is where the cooler and cleaner air is.
• Remember E.D.I.T.H.- Exit Drills in the Home. Remember to practice exit drills in your home at least twice a year. Have a least two ways of getting out of every room.
• Whenever you get out stay out! Never return in the home for anything!
• Learn how to use a portable fire extinguisher.
• If you have a home with several levels, consider installing a collapsible ladder.
• If you are building a new home consider installing a home sprinkler system.
• More importantly, keep matches and lighters out of the hands of small children.

With wildfire season upon us, the Orange County Fire Rescue Department has initiated a community outreach program aimed at improving public awareness in the areas of wildfire prevention and preparedness. Part of this program is to provide Orange County residents with information about our programs and to encourage the support and involvement of communities throughout the County.

The Fire Rescue Department has established a Wildfire Education Task Force dedicated to developing and implementing educational programs and initiatives. These initiatives will bring firefighters and citizens together in a partnership to help spread the word about wildfire safety.

• Door to door distribution of wildfire education packets.
   
• Wildfire preparedness presentations available to community organizations, local businesses, and social groups.
   
• Fire Rescue representation at Homeowners Association meetings.
   
• Wildfire information made available through Fire Rescue Department and Emergency Management Web site.
   
• Community Emergency Response Teams (C.E.R.T.) training available for any Orange County community.

We at Orange County Fire Rescue Department feel it is important to keep residents informed of what the Fire Rescue Department is doing to protect their homes, families, and property from wildfire. It is also important to teach them how to protect themselves.

If you would like more information about what the Fire Rescue Department is doing to protect you and your family, please call (407) 836-9035 and ask for our Wildfire Education Specialist.