Fire Prevention Week kicks off on Sunday, this year’s theme being safety with candles. In 2002, candles caused an estimated 18,000 structure fires, 130 civilian deaths, and $333 million in property damage in the US. (Courtesy NFPA)
If there is an open house or other program being put on by your local fire department, please attend. Learn about operation EDITH (exit drills in the home)-develop a home fire safety plan-practice it. Check your smoke detectors, replace the batteries and if the detector is 10 years old or older, replace it.
Lastly, please pause for a moment in recognition of the 117 men and women, career and volunteer who will be added to the memorial at a service in Emmittsburg, MD, having fallen in the line of duty during 2004. I’d like the number to be zero, but you’ve got to be safer at home, work, and play for that goal to become realistic. Thanks
Links for further info:
www.nfpa.org
www.usfa.fema.gov/index.shtm