The November print edition of the MATC Times is focusing on the people we are thankful for at MATC, but we also want to take this opportunity to remember First Responders who risk their lives to save others. Besides running into burning buildings, another way firefighters save people is through fire prevention.

To get an inside look at those efforts, we talked to John Zaworski, a Lieutenant with the Milwaukee Fire Department about life-saving strategies, common fire hazards, and how the community can stay safe year-round.

What key messages do you want to share with the community?

“Our number one message is to have a working smoke detector (and carbon monoxide detector) in every level in the house at minimum. Ideally, you want one in every bedroom or outside of every bedroom. That’s the easiest way to help save lives.”

What are the most common causes of house fires in Milwaukee, and how can residents prevent them?

“There are a wide array of causes. It can be accidental, cooking, anything like that. Now, this time of year with the weather getting colder; a lot of residents use space heaters. Space heaters too close to anything fabric or similar things (can be dangerous).”

Are there new fire initiatives or programs the Milwaukee Fire Department is implementing this year?

“We have community risk reduction, where our goal is to stop at every single and multi-family residence in a five-year span to make sure that they have working smoke detectors as well as working carbon monoxide detectors. We also have a smoke detector hotline.” That number is: 414-286-8980. You can call and request to have one installed.

With the winter months coming, Zaworski reminds the community that fire safety is a year-round priority. By ensuring smoke alarms are working properly and educating ourselves on prevention strategies, we can protect our homes and families.