State Fire Marshal Michael P. Bell is encouraging Ohioans to participate in National Fire Prevention Week, October 5th-11th. This year, citizens are encouraged to "Prevent Home Fires."

"It is important to remember that many house fires that occur in Ohio are preventable when residents take simple steps to increase their fire safety," said Marshal Bell. "Whether it's smoking outside the home, keeping space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, or staying in the kitchen when you are using the stovetop, there are easy things you can do to keep your family and your home safe from fire."

According to the latest research from the National Fire Protection Association, more than 2,500 people died in home fires in the United States in 2006 and 12,500 were injured. Fire departments responded to 396,000 home fires, which accounted for 80% of civilian deaths and 76% of injuries that year.

Fires happen in communities throughout Ohio and often have devastating effects. 135 people have died in fires in Ohio in 2008. More than 85% of the fatal fires occurred in homes without a smoke detector or in a home in which the smoke detector did not function.

Marshal Bell offered the following safety tips for Fire Prevention Week 2008:

 - Smoke Detectors: Install working smoke alarms on every level and inside each sleeping area of the home.

 - Fire Escape Plan: Develop a fire escape plan that identifies two ways out of each room and designates a family meeting place outside.

 - Cooking: Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period, turn off the stove.

 - Heating: Keep all things that can burn, such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.

 - Electrical: Replace cracked and damaged electrical cords; use extension cords for temporary wiring only. Consider having additional circuits or receptacles added by a qualified electrician.

 - Smoking: If you smoke, smoke outside; wherever you smoke, use deep, sturdy ashtrays.