Did you know Fire Prevention Week marks the anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire of October 8-9, 1871? The blaze killed more than 300 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures, and burned more than 2,000 acres. The anniversary of this devastating fire isn’t marked with festivities but instead is commemorated through fire prevention education.

​

It’s critical to begin teaching fire prevention and fire safety from a young age. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) more than 49,000 fires annually are caused by children. 46% of all fires deliberately-set are started by children. For these reasons, we welcome the invitation to speak with elementary students in the classroom. Our educational programs focus on early intervention, fire prevention measures, and fire safety to highlight the dangers and consequences of fire.

 

Year-round our station shares fire prevention and safety lessons with schools, daycare groups, civic groups such as the boy scouts and girl scouts, church groups, and other organizations who request a tour of the firehouse or invite us to come to them.

The educational programs and station tours can be tailored to the interests, and be age-appropriate, for the group. Some topics highlighted could include:

• Common fire dangers

• Smoke detectors

• Pedestrian safety

• The importance of escape routes and family meeting places

• Plus, the opportunity to see turnout gear and a fire engine up close

​

Even though our firefighters are trained for nearly every situation and ready to respond when the alarm sounds, we would rather prevent an emergency before it occurs. Our goal is for a safer Halfway community.