What You Can Do for Fire Prevention Week

Fire Prevention Week, observed annually during the week of October 9, commemorates the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and aims to educate the public about fire safety practices.¹

Let’s look at what you can do to participate in and contribute to Fire Prevention Week.

What is Fire Prevention Week?

Fire Prevention Week has been observed in the United States since 1922, making it the longest-running public health and safety observance.¹ The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sponsors this week and focuses on a specific theme each year to address different aspects of fire safety. The goal is to reduce the risk of fire-related incidents through education and proactive measures.

Fire Prevention Week 2024 begins on Sunday, October 8, and ends on Saturday, October 14. The theme for this year is “Cooking safety starts with YOU!”²

What You Can Do for Fire Prevention Week?

Fire Prevention Week is a crucial time for raising awareness about fire safety and taking steps to prevent fires in our homes and communities. Here are a few ways you can participate:

Educate Yourself and Others
Start by familiarizing yourself with the basics of fire safety. Understand how fires start, the common causes of residential fires, and how to prevent them. The NFPA and local fire departments provide valuable resources and information.

Use social media platforms to share fire safety tips and information. Create posts, share videos, and use hashtags like #FirePreventionWeek to reach a wider audience. You can also organize community meetings or webinars to discuss fire safety.

Conduct a Home Fire Safety Inspection
According to the US Fire Administration, there were over 1.5 million residential fires in 2022.³ Keeping your home safe is important. Here’s a checklist for you to conduct a home fire safety inspection:

1. Check Smoke Alarms: Ensure that smoke alarms are installed on every level of your home, including inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. Smoke alarms should be tested monthly and replaced every 10 years. Replace the batteries at least once a year.

2. Review Escape Plans: Create and practice a home fire escape plan. Ensure all family members know two ways out of every room and designate a meeting place outside. Practice your escape plan twice a year.⁴

3. Inspect Fire Extinguishers: Make sure that your fire extinguishers are readily accessible and properly maintained. Also, make sure that everyone in your household knows how to use them.

4. Identify Fire Hazards: Look for potential fire hazards in your home. This includes checking electrical cords for damage, ensuring flammable materials are stored safely, and keeping space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn.

Educate Children on Fire Safety
Everyone needs to be aware of fire safety, including children.

• Teach children what to do in case of a fire. Conduct fire drills and ensure children understand the importance of not hiding during a fire.

• Make sure that children know how to perform the stop, drop, and roll technique if their clothes catch on fire.

• Introduce children to the role of firefighters. This can help reduce their fear and build their trust during emergencies.

Participate in Community Events
Many fire departments offer open houses or tours during Fire Prevention Week. These events are excellent opportunities to learn about fire safety, fire prevention, emergency preparedness, and first aid and to meet local firefighters.

In addition, consider volunteering with local fire departments or organizations that promote fire safety. Your involvement can help spread awareness and contribute to community safety.

Implement Fire Safety Measures at Home
You can do many things to practice fire safety measures at home.

• Never leave cooking unattended. Keep flammable items away from the stove and always supervise children in the kitchen.

• Have your heating system inspected annually by a professional. Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment.

• Avoid overloading electrical outlets and use surge protectors. Unplug appliances when not in use and replace any damaged cords.

• If possible, use flameless candles. If you use real candles, never leave them unattended, and keep them away from flammable items.

Advocate for Fire Safety Policies
Lastly, advocate for more robust community fire safety codes and regulations. This can include requirements for smoke alarms, fire sprinklers, and fire-resistant building materials.

You can also encourage schools and workplaces to implement fire safety education programs and support initiatives to raise awareness and educate the public about fire prevention.

Fire Prevention Week is an excellent opportunity to focus on fire safety and take proactive steps to protect yourself, your family, and your community. By educating yourself and others, conducting home inspections, participating in community events, and implementing safety measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire-related incidents. Contact our office to learn more about how we can help you reach your goals. David DeMore, CFP®, MSFS, EA is a tax and wealth advisor serving clients in Elm Grove, Lake Country, and Mequon.