Contact:
Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608/267-9661
MADISON–Department of Commerce (Commerce) Secretary Mary P. Burke announced today that National Fire Prevention Week will be held from October 9-15, 2005. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is urging the public to focus on candle safety during this year’s observation.
“Commerce is pleased to be a partner with the NFPA in encouraging everyone to recognize Nation Fire Prevention Week by following appropriate fire safety precautions,” Burke said. “I would also like to take this occasion to commend our state’s firefighters for their courage and dedication to duty.”
Wisconsin Fire Prevention Week commemorates the catastrophic fire in Peshtigo in 1871 and the Great Chicago Fire of that same year. Wisconsin’s fire service, emergency providers and safety advocates are dedicated to educating citizens about the devastating effects of fire and precautionary measures the public may take to escape such dangers.
The keys to survival are early warning and quick action. NFPA advises installing working smoke alarms on every level of your home to alert you if fire strikes, and developing and practicing a home fire drill, so you’ll be prepared in an emergency.
To learn more about recommended safety precautions, visit the NFPA website at
www.nfpa.org and click on Public Education. Teachers are especially encouraged to visit this site for information, games and activities that can help educate students on fire safety. For further information on National Fire Prevention Week or other fire safety issues, contact your local fire department.
The NFPA has sponsored National Fire Prevention Week for more than 80 years.
