FORT DETRICK, Md. - The Fort Detrick/Forest Glen Fire and Emergency Services Division wrapped up the 2022 National Fire Protection Association’s Fire Prevention Week Campaign: “Fire Won’t Wait. Plan Your Escape.”
The History of National Fire Prevention Week
National Fire Prevention Day, held on October 9 each year, was first proclaimed by President Woodrow Wilson in 1920. Fire Prevention Week was created and has been observed on Sunday through Saturday, when October 9 falls, since 1922. This year marks the 100th anniversary of Fire Prevention Week, the nation’s longest-running public health observance on record.
Fire Prevention Week was started in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871, and caused devastating damage. The Fire killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures, and burned more than 2,000 acres of land.
Takeaways from this year’s Campaign: Fire Won’t Wait, Plan Your Escape
· Make sure your home escape plan meets the needs of all your family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.
· Smoke Alarms should be installed inside every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home.
· Smoke alarms should be interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound.
· Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible.
· Make sure all doors and windows open.
· Have an outside meeting place at a safe distance from your home where everyone should meet.
· Practice your home fire drill at least twice a year with everyone in the household, including guests.
If you have questions about smoke/carbon monoxide detectors, contact the Fort Detrick/Forest Glen Fire & Emergency Services Prevention Branch.
For more Fire Prevention tips and resources, visit https://www.nfpa.org/.
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