National Fire Prevention Week teaches preparation

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kristopher Levasseur
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  RAF Lakenheath is celebrating National Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 7 to 13. 

Many activities have been scheduled to incorportate this year's theme, "Practice Your Escape Plan." 

Last year, the 48th Civil Engineering Squadron fire department responded to 19 fires that causing more than $20,000 of damage to Air Force property and more than $90,000 in damage to non Air Force property.

"Fire Prevention Week is a great way for us to get the information out to the public," said Tech. Sgt. Roberto Downing, 48th CES fire inspector. "If people paid a little more attention to what they are doing when handling fire, we wouldn't get called out as much."

Oct. 8 to 12, informational displays were at the Commissary and Base Exchange including static displays, pamphlets, coloring books and stickers.

"A lot of our events during the open house are geared toward children," said Staff Sgt. Jovon Stafford, 48th CES fire inspector. "We will have a smoke house to show the children what a room would look like if there was a fire in the house."

A few safety tips for preparing a family plan emphasized during Fire Prevention Week are:

- Include everyone in the household in making a plan.
- Everyone in the house should understand the escape plan.
- While going through the plan, check to ensure all escape routes are clear and all doors and windows open easily.
- Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance away from the front of the house where everyone can meet after escaping the fire.
- Be prepared for a real fire.
- When the smoke alarm sounds, get out immediately and stay out.
- Practice the plan at least twice a year.

"It is important to have a plan set in place," said Sergeant Stafford. "Doing this will ensure their family will be ready for an emergency if the time comes."

According to the Chicago Public Library website, the history of National Fire Prevention Week has it roots in the Great Chicago Fire, which occurred Oct. 8, 1871. The fire killed 300 people, left 100,000 homeless and destroyed more than 17,000 structures. The fire took its toll, burning more than 2000 acres in 27 hours. After Chicago was restored, residents began celebrating their successful restoration to memorialize the anniversary of the fire with festivities.

"Fire prevention week is a celebration of fire prevention education," said Sergeant Stafford. "It gives awareness to an issue that people should observe year round."