National Fire Prevention Week
By Rep. Lynn Westmoreland
October 10, 2012
This week marks the 90th annual National Fire Prevention Week. From October 7-13, I encourage the people of the Third District and the state of Georgia to use this as an opportunity to become educated on fire safety and to enroll in local fire prevention activities.
Beginning in 1922, National Fire Prevention Week has raised awareness to the public about fire prevention and education. It is currently the longest running public health and safety observance on record. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) have partnered with the National Fire Protection Agency to encourage all families to prepare an emergency escape and response plan. Here are 4 tips on when planning for a fire emergency:
- Check that all smoke alarms work: USFA recommends that every residence be equipped with both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms or dual sensor smoke alarms, which contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors;
- Make sure that there are two ways out of every room;
- Make a home fire plan; and
- Practice with family members including children, older family members, individuals living with a disability, or others who have access and functional needs so that every person knows how to use both ways to get to safety.
Throughout the week, I hope everyone takes the time to pay tribute to our nation’s Fire and Emergency Services, for those who are serving and ones we have lost. In 2011, there were over 1,389,500 fires in the United States, taking many lives of civilians and servicemen. On October 7, over 5000 members of the fire service attended the 31st Annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service. This ceremony paid tribute to 85 firefighters who gave their lives the previous year.
Please help spread the word about fire safety and preparedness. For more information, please visit:
National Fire Protection Association
Ready.gov
U.S. Fire Administration