When was the last time you changed your smoke alarm?
This week marks the 89th annual National Fire Prevention Week. Since it was established in 1920 by the NFPA, each year the Association chooses a different theme to alert the public of the danger of fire. But how did this program start and what is this year’s theme? Read on to find out.
The History of National Fire Prevention Week
National Fire Prevention Week was established in 1920 when President Woodrow Wilson issued the first proclamation. Since 1922, the week has been observed on the Sunday through Saturday in the period which October 9th falls. This week was started to bring awareness to the fire safety and to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire, which raged through the city from October 8-10, 1871. This tragic conflagration killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 people homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures, and burned more than 2,000 acres of land. While it began on October 8th, the fire did most of its damage on October 9, 1871. This week also commemorates the Peshtigo Fire, which is the most devastating forest fire in American history. This fire occurred on October 8, 1871, and roared through Northeastern Wisconsin. The Peshtigo fire burned 16 towns, killed 1,152 people, and scorched more than 1.2 million acres of forest before it burned out. Over the years, Americans have suffered many different fires, but these two fires remain the worst in history. But with the help of National Fire Prevention Week, the NFPA hopes to avoid tragedies like these in our future.
National Fire Prevention Week 2016: Don’t Wait – Check the Date!
This year’s slogan is “Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years” in order to bring awareness to the public that they should replace their smoke alarms every decade. Since there are many different misconceptions about smoke alarms, NFPA has chosen to focus on this essential piece of fire protection equipment for the past three years. It is important for every household to have a smoke alarm that is properly working in order to avoid accidents. To find out how old your smoke alarm is, be sure to check the manufacturer’s date on the back of the alarm. If your smoke alarm is more than 10 years old, make sure to replace it with a newer version. Just like other electronics, smoke alarms have been updated since you have put up yours so upgrade and save a life!
Celebrate the 89th Annual National Fire Prevention Week with Fireline
At Fireline, we offer an array of portable fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and sprinkler systems to keep commercial kitchens safe. Fireline offers the highest quality alarm systems to keep your business safe from fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. We also offer fire suppression systems as well to help keep commercial fires controlled should they break out. Our trained technicians will work with you to determine which air sampling smoke detection system is best for your business. We will also help install and maintain the system for your commercial building.
To get started with Fireline today, or for more information on sprinkler systems call us at 1-800-553-3405, or visit our contact page.
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