EDITORIAL:

A near-tragedy occurred in Costa Mesa recently.

And it could, in all likelihood, have been avoided.

Let’s start with the facts: A two bedroom apartment, in which nine people were living, caught fire.

An 11-year-old boy was taken to Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian in Newport Beach. There were no other injuries, but six families were displaced, according to Red Cross officials.

One unit of the apartment complex was destroyed. Another suffered water damage.

But here’s the kicker: “There were either no smoke detectors or none with batteries at the time of fire,” Costa Mesa Battalion Chief William Kershaw said. “That’s why we’re reminding everyone to remember to change the batteries.”

So it’s worth noting that Oct. 7-13 is National Fire Prevention Week. According to the National Fire Protection Assn., 80% of all fire deaths in 2006 were caused by home fires. Last year, roughly 2,600 people were killed by home fires and 12,500 were injured, according to the association.

In the name of safety, we’d like to pass on the following fire tips offered by NFPA officials:

• Develop a fire escape plan that identifies two ways out of each room and a family meeting place outside.

• Make sure your plan allows for any specific needs in your household. If everyone knows what to do, everyone can get out quickly.

• Practice your plan, at least twice a year.

• Some studies have shown that some children and adults may not awaken to the sound of a smoke alarm; they may need help waking up.

• If the smoke alarm sounds, go to your closest exit, and if there is smoke on your way out, turn and use your second way out. If you must exit through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Don’t take time to pick up belongings; just get out and help others get out. Move fast but stay calm.

The apartment fire in Costa Mesa is the latest reminder that we can all increase our awareness when it comes to fire safety.