Fire Prevention Week

Fire Prevention Week History

Fire Prevention Week is dedicated to raising awareness about fire safety and prevention, as well as commemorating the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The main aim of this week is to educate the public on the importance of taking proper precautions to prevent fires and to prepare for emergencies. In addition, the observance promotes community involvement, urging citizens and organizations to collaborate on initiatives to reduce the risk of fires and to increase the overall safety of their communities.

In Canada, the tradition of observing Fire Prevention Week can be traced back to 1919, when the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) established the event in response to the devastating fires that claimed countless lives and properties. Since then, Fire Prevention Week has been embraced and celebrated across Canada, evolving over the years to reflect the specific needs and concerns of Canadian citizens. Emphasizing preventive measures, such as smoke alarm installation and maintenance, as well as the importance of creating and practicing escape plans, the week aims to empower Canadians to take control of their own fire safety.

Throughout the country, Fire Prevention Week is typically marked by a variety of educational and interactive events, such as fire station open houses, school presentations, and awareness campaigns on social media platforms. Local fire departments and various organizations collaborate to raise public awareness and share essential information and resources. In Canada, Fire Prevention Week is commonly observed during the second week of October, coinciding with the anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire, making this an ideal time to reflect on the importance of fire safety and prevention efforts.

Top facts about Fire Prevention Week

• The theme for Fire Prevention Week in 2023 was Cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire prevention.
• According to the National Fire Protection Association, leaving food cooking in the kitchen unattended is the number 1 cause of home fires and home fire injuries.
• Redcross.org recommends several tips for fire safety:
  1) Install smoke alarms on all levels of your home. Also install them inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
  2) Test smoke alarms every month and replace them if they're not working.
  3) Talk with family members about a fire escape plan. Practice it twice a year.
  4) If a fire does occur, Get out, Stay out, and Call for help. Never go back inside a burning building.
• On average, eight Canadians die from a fire every week, according to the Fire Prevention Canada.
• About 73% of the unintentional fatal fires in Canada are caused by smoking, cooking and heating equipment, as per the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs.
• According to Ontario law, it is mandatory to have working smoke alarms on every storey of a home and outside every sleeping area.

In the News and Trending for Fire Prevention Week

Top things to do for Fire Prevention Week

• Create a fire escape plan for you and your family. Become familiar with the escape routes in your home or building and practice using them in case of a fire.
• Watch the National Fire Protection Association's public education playlist about fire safety and prevention.
• Browse the Fire Prevention Week infographic to learn more ways to stay safe.
• Read Tinderbox: The Untold Story of the Up Stairs Lounge Fire and the Rise of Gay Liberation by Robert W. Fieseler.