By By Lisa Tindell – News writer
Thick, grey, acrid smoke can fill the lungs of a human in moments, causing severe illness that could lead to death.
The Brewton Fire Department is doing its part in helping to prevent such tragedies with a special focus during Fire Prevention Week today through Saturday.
The open house will be held at the Brewton Fire Department on St. Nicholas Avenue from 3:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday. During the afternoon event, firefighters will be available for discussion of fire prevention as well as to give tips to children on how to escape a fire.
Weaver said the leading cause of most cooking fires, which accounts for most house fire problems, is unattended cooking.
Weaver said most combustibles associated with cooking fires include potholders, dishtowels, bags and the fact that some stoves are not cleaned properly.
Brewton firefighters will also be making trips to area schools during the week to talk to students about fire safety and fire prevention.
Weaver also said the week will be used to promote the Brewton Fire Department's smoke alarm program, which has been in place for almost eight years.
Weaver said one other area of importance for minimizing fire damage to a home in the event of a fire is to have clearly displayed house numbers at your residence.
The Brewton Fire Department is offering assistance to residents who want to display their house numbers more visibly. Reflective house number signs are available through the department, complete with installation, for $20 each.
Brewton's local television station, Channel 6 on cable, will be presenting a video called &#8220Fires Fury” during prevention week on Tuesday, Oct. 10 and again on Thursday, Oct. 12 at 8 a.m. and again at 6 p.m. on those days.