Use of Technology in Fire Safety Education Every year, 5,000 people die due to house fires. Many of these deaths could have been avoided. Fire not only kills, it destroys property and leaves many injured. Fortunately, we can do something. Over the years, the growth of technology used to educate about fire safety has increased significantly. We now have many different ways to reach people of all ages. Some of this information includes: the increased importance of the smoke detector, fire safety houses, fire safety videos, educational websites, high school cadet programs and fire education equipment. All of these are very useful and effective ways to teach fire safety. Smoke detectors are a first and sometimes only warning that a fire could break out. Many Americans overlook this importance. Each year, 52% of residential deaths occur in homes without smoke detectors. The majority, if not all, of these deaths could have been avoided. It is important to check smoke detectors monthly and change batteries every six months. The Fire Department is more than willing to answer any questions you may have or assist you in any way. Fire safety houses offer children the chance to experience what it's like to be trapped in a burning house. Often made from a caravan, a fire safety house can contain two floors, a fireplace, bedrooms and a kitchen. The fire safety house is designed to simulate smoke created by a fog machine and heat to give children hands-on experience. Children learn how to escape a fire and may even call 911 once they escape to their "neighbor's house." Fire safety houses can be found in fire stations around the world...... middle of paper...... Hyattsville Volunteer Fire Department Children's Page. October 1, 2004 Journal of Fire Protection Engineering. October 1, 2004. Society of Fire Protection Engineers: 1989. Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute. October 1, 2004 MFRI Bulletin/Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute, University of Maryland. October 1, 2004. University of Maryland, College Park Fire and Rescue Institute: 19uu. Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services Home Page. October 1, 2004 Smokey Bear Homepage. October 1, 2004 Sparky the Firedog Homepage. October 1, 2004 < http://www.sparky.org/ > United States Fire Administration. October 1 2004>