Fire Prevention Week

Fire prevention Week is October 5 - 11, 2008!

The history of National Fire Prevention Week has it roots in the Great Chicago Fire, which occurred on October 8, 1871. This tragic conflagration killed some 300 people, left 100,000 homeless and destroyed more than 17,000 structures. The city of Chicago quickly rebuilt, however, and within a couple of years residents began celebrating their successful restoration to memorialize the anniversary of the fire with festivities.

Intending to observe the fire's anniversary with a more serious commemoration, the Fire Marshals Association of North America (FMANA), the oldest membership section of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), decided that the 40th anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire should be observed not with festivities, but in a way that would keep the public informed about the importance of fire prevention.

When President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed the first National Fire Prevention Week, October 4 - 10 1925, he noted that in the previous year some 15,000 lives were lost to fire in the United States. NFPA continues today to make National Fire Prevention Week a priority and counts on the participation and efforts of tens of thousands of fire and safety professionals, emergency volunteers, and other individuals working to reduce the risk of fire and the toll it takes on our society.

Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue participates in a number of activities during Fire Prevention Week. Firefighters visit with citizens of all ages about the dangers of fire and steps they can take to prevent tragedies in their own homes. Puppet Shows for preschool and elementary school children provide fire education to kids in a fun and entertaining environment.

To schedule an event at your school or to request a fire prevention presentation for your organization please Email Debra Funston, Public Education Coordinator/PIO with any questions about our programs or call (970) 879-7170.