Firefighters teach prevention, preparation Published Oct. 15, 2015 By Senior Airman Dawn M. Weber 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- Did you know that roughly half of the deaths resulting from home fires are reported between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., when most Airmen and their families are asleep? The 48th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighters taught Liberty Airmen and their families about preparing for and preventing fires during National Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 5-9, incorporating this year's theme, "Hear the beep, where you sleep." "The number one mission of Air Force Fire Emergency Services is fire prevention," said Tech Sgt. James Calvin, 48th CES fire prevention inspector. "We strive to provide the highest level of service through fire inspection frequencies and public education." The 48th CES firefighters set up informational displays at the Commissary and Base Exchange, as well as smokehouse tours, and an open house tour for Liberty Wing families. "We place a lot of focus on the students in the schools," Calvin said. "For RAFs Lakenheath and Feltwell, we network with Suffolk Fire Department and they bring their specialized smoke demonstration trailer on base. We also have a fire house on RAF Feltwell set up with numerous fire hazards. The students go through the demonstration houses, learn about fire safety, identify hazards and receive gift bags with learning aids to take home." 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 The 48th CES fire department responds to approximately nine fires each year, causing an estimated $435,011 in damage to both Air Force and personal property. "The most important part of fire prevention is an evacuation plan and to practice that plan," Calvin said. "Everyone should practice the evacuation plan often, to ensure everyone knows all of the possible exits and outside rally points." According to the Chicago Public Library website, the history of National Fire Prevention Week has its roots in the Great Chicago Fire, which occurred Oct. 8, 1871. The fire killed 300, left 100,000 homeless and destroyed more than 17,000 structures. The fire burned more than 2,000 acres in 27 hours. After Chicago was restored, residents began celebrating their successful restoration to memorialize the anniversary of the fire with festivities.