National Fire Prevention Week

By Steven A. Pollio, Coconut Creek Fire Chief

Fire departments throughout our great country will be celebrating National Fire Prevention Week from October 5-11, 2008. This is a yet another opportunity to take a moment from our busy lives to reduce the possibility of fires, and to practice our family escape and exit drills in our homes.

National Fire Prevention Week is said to have begun after the Great Chicago Fire which occurred on October 8, 1871. This fire burned for over 27 hours and destroyed over 2000 acres, including 17,000 structures. The rapid spread of this huge fire killed over 300 people and left almost 100,000 residents homeless.

Although the exact cause of the fire was never determined, the people of Chicago, as well as the fire service have handed down one theory from generation to generation. That theory is that Mrs. O’Leary was milking her cow in the barn, when the cow knocked over the oil lamp, causing the fire.

In Coconut Creek, we also will be celebrating National Fire Prevention Week during the entire month of October. Thanks to Coconut Creek Elementary Principal William Roach, Tradewinds Elementary Principal Susan L. Whiting, and Winston Park Elementary Principal Carolyn Eggelletion, this year’s activities include multiple interactive fire safety assemblies at each of the three elementary schools. Our Fire Safety Team will also be visiting the preschools with Sparky the Fire Dog.

What can we do to improve fire safety? First, I would encourage all parents to sit down with their children and review the fire safety literature that all elementary age children will be receiving at their assemblies. Next I would ask that all families practice having a fire escape drill in their home. This exercise will better prepare all family members to react should a home fire occur. This drill should include getting out of the house safely and quickly, and meeting at a preplanned meeting place. Next, I would recommend that you spend a few minutes inspecting your home for old or damaged electrical and extension cords. Consider replacing old or damaged extension cords with new, heavy duty, ground extension cords, or consider relocating appliances as to eliminate the cord altogether. Third, I would suggest that you inspect and test all smoke detectors and consider purchasing a fire extinguisher for the home.

I would like to bring to your attention that cooking is the number one cause of home fires. In fact, unattended cooking, cooking involving grease, or frying, tops the list as the leading causes of kitchen fires. Please do not leave the kitchen while you are cooking.        

Candles are another cause of home fires. Minimize the use of candles, and do not leave burning candles in unoccupied areas. And last but certainly not least, please keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children.

This month, please join the Coconut Creek Fire Rescue Department in our fire safety campaign to reduce fires, as well as the injuries and property damage associated with them. Have a Fire Safe October!