Fire Prevention Week 2024

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Fire Prevention Week 2024

Fire Prevention Week is observed annually during the week of October 9th to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. This fire claimed the lives of over 250 people and destroyed more than 17,400 buildings, leaving a profound impact on communities across the nation. In response to this tragedy, Fire Prevention Week was established. This week serves as a vital opportunity to educate the public on how to safeguard lives and property from the dangers of fire. The theme for Fire Prevention Week 2024 is “Smoke alarms: make them work for you!” This message reinforces the importance of smoke alarms.

Here are the Facts

Smoke alarms can make a life-saving difference if properly installed, tested, and maintained. In fact, the NFPA found that:

  • Having working smoke alarms in the home reduces the risk of dying in a home fire by 54%.
  • On the other hand, roughly 60% of fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or smoke alarms that do not work.

Follow along as we celebrate Fire Prevention Week by sharing a daily fire prevention-related topic and activity!

MONDAY

History of Fire Prevention Week

The goal this week is for everyone to learn how to stay safe in case of fire. Click here to learn about the history of Fire Prevention Week. Make sure to follow the daily schedule of fire prevention activities.

TUESDAY

Smoke Alarm Installation, Testing, and Maintenance

Smoke alarms are crucial in providing early warnings of a fire, giving you and your family the precious time needed to escape safely. Here’s how to ensure your smoke alarms are always ready to protect you:

  • Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home, including the basement.
  • Test your smoke alarms monthly by pressing the test button.
  • Replace the batteries at least once a year, and replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years.

Find more smoke alarm facts and tips here: Smoke Alarms at Home Tip Sheet

Do you own or manage another type of property? From residential high rises to manufacturing facilities, fire alarm monitoring provides an extra layer of protection. Visit our website to learn more: Fire Alarm Monitoring

WEDNESDAY

Create your Home Fire Escape Plan

In the event of a fire, every second counts. Having a well-thought-out fire escape plan can make all the difference. Here’s how to create and practice your plan:

  • Draw a map of your home, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
  • Practice your home fire drill at least twice a year, both during the day and at night.
  • Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.

Download a step-by-step home fire escape plan guide here: How to Make a Home Fire Escape Plan

THURSDAY

Fire Safety in the Kitchen

The kitchen is the heart of the home, but it’s also where most home fires start. Follow these tips to keep your kitchen safe:

  • Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen, even for a short time, turn off the stove.
  • Keep anything that can catch fire—like oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains—away from your stovetop.
  • Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

Visit our blog for more kitchen fire safety facts and tips: Serving Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen

FRIDAY

Fire Sprinkler Myths vs. Facts

Fire sprinklers are one of the most effective ways to protect your home from fire, yet many myths surround their use. Let’s set the record straight:

  • Myth: “When one sprinkler goes off, they all go off.”
    Fact: Only the sprinkler closest to the fire will activate, spraying water directly on the fire.
  • Myth: “Sprinklers cause more water damage than fire.”
    Fact: Sprinklers use significantly less water than fire hoses and can control a fire much faster, reducing overall damage.

Check out our blog for more fire myths vs. facts: Fire Sprinkler Myths vs. Facts

To learn more about the fire and life safety systems we offer, call 847-816-0050, or visit our website here.

To learn more about fire safety, visit our website, or reach out to our team at 844-MYUSAFP (698-7237). We are more than happy to assist with your fire and life safety system planning and scheduling.

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