Firefighter training

Fire Prevention Week is occurring now through Saturday, with this year’s theme being “Not every hero wears a cape. Plan and practice your escape.”

The need for this event to be held annually is demonstrated in the numbers. U.S. Fire Departments responded to nearly 360,000 home structure fires in 2017, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Those fires caused 2,630 deaths and 10,600 injuries. On average, seven people died in a fire in a home per day between 2012 and 2016.

While NFPA and many fire departments are focusing on home fires, these messages apply to virtually any location.

“Escape planning and practice can help you make the most of the time you have, giving everyone enough time to get out,” says  Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of outreach and advocacy.

While NFPA and many fire departments are focusing on home fires, these messages apply to virtually any location.

The NFPA says that situational awareness is important everywhere a person goes. When at work, all employees should be aware of available exits. If a fire alarm sounds in the building, it needs to be taken seriously. Everyone inside should exit immediately.

To find out more about Fire Prevention Week programs and activities in your area, contact a local fire department. For more general information on exit planning at the time of a fire, visit www.fpw.org.