MT. VERNON — Temperatures are beginning to drop, which means area residents will be using heat and fires more as it continues to get cooler. October is Fire Prevention Month and the Mt. Vernon Fire Department wants you to be safe and use common sense around your home.

Mt. Vernon Fire Chief Kevin Sargent and his department will be visiting area schools to talk with kids about fire safety. Sargent encourages parents to talk with their kids about what they learned.

Sargent also reiterates the importance of practicing your fire escape plan in your home.

Sargent says the key to preventing a fire in your home is to use common sense.