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Did you know that "Fire Prevention Week" is the longest running public health and safety observance on record. It was established after the tragic Great Chicago Fire of October 1871. That's the fire with the legend of Mrs. O'Leary's cow kicking over the lamp. No matter what caused the fire (many theories), the loss of lives, structures and burned acreage was huge. It was decided that the public should be informed about the importance of fire prevention and safety.
Every year "Fire Prevention Week" is observed during the week of October that has the 9th in it, because the Great Chicago Fire last from October 8th-10th and did most of it's damage on October 9 of 1871. Every year there is a different theme; this year it is "Prevent Kitchen Fires", since cooking is the #1 cause of home fires and home injuries and a significant contributor to home fire deaths.
Here are important kitchen safety tips to homeowners that the National Fire Protection Associate is providing:
- When you fry, grill, or broil food, stay in the kitchen.
 - Maintain a kid- and pet-free zone at least 3 feet away from the stove.
- Turn pot handles away from the stove's edge.
- Keep a lid and oven mitt nearby when you're cooking to use in case of a grease fire. If you have a grease fire, slide a lid over the pan. Turn off the burner and leave the pan covered until it is completely cool.
- Don't leave cooking food unattended
- Clean ovens for spills so they don't burn and catch on fire
- Keep oven mitts, wooden utensil, food packaging, and towels away from stovetop.
- Have a fire extinguisher near your kitchen.
Click here for more information on other ways you can be safe and protect your home and family with the caution to fire safety.
Click here for ways your kids can learn about fire safety week.
Along with fire extinguishers near the kitchen you will also want to make sure your home is equipped with both smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with functioning batteries. Install one smoke detector on every level, including the basement, and locate alarms near any sleeping areas. Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed near sleeping areas as well. In addition to installing alarms in your home, it is important that you develop a fire escape plan and practice it with all members of your household. Designate a well-lit place, a safe distance away from your home, where everyone will meet in the event of a fire. This will help firefighters determine if anyone is still inside the home.
Use "Fire Prevention Week" to remind you to check your smoke alarms. Remember:
SMOKE ALARMS = A SOUND YOU CAN LIVE WITH!
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