Fire Prevention Week was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire, the tragic 1871 conflagration that killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures and burned more than 2,000 acres. The fire began on October 8, but continued into and did most of its damage on October 9, 1871. Since 1922, Fire Prevention Week has been observed on the Sunday through Saturday period in which October 9 falls. According to the National Archives, Fire Prevention Week is the longest running public health and safety observance on record. The Charlotte Fire Department has a variety of fire safety awareness programs for the family:
All Month Smoke Alarm Hotline: Call 704-336-2697, to see if you qualify
CFD will provide smoke alarms and safety information to qualifying homeowners who cannot afford one. Certain restrictions apply.
Tues, Oct. 6 Charlotte Fire Department Awards Ceremony
Open to the public: Charlotte Fire Department Training Academy
1770 Shopton Rd., 7 p.m.
This ceremony honors Charlotte Fire Department personnel who have gone beyond the call of duty to protect the citizens of Charlotte.
Wed, Oct. 7 North Carolina Family Fire Drill Day
State Fire Marshal Wayne Goodwin is proclaiming Wednesday, October 7 as "North Carolina Family Fire Drill Day" and encouraging families to practice their home escape plans that evening in support of Fire Prevention Week. For more about NC Family Fire Drill Day, visit www.ncdoi.com/OSFM/SafeKids/fireprevention
Thurs, Oct 8 Annual Firefighters Burned Children's Fund Scholarship Awards
Charlotte Fire Department, Office of the Chief
228 E. 9th Street, Time TBA
The Charlotte Mecklenburg Firefighters Burned Children's Fund annually awards college scholarships to an inspirational area burn survivors and/or students studying burn healthcare.
Fri, Oct 9 Fire Prevention Week Bulletin Board Contest
To be held at the winning school, TBA; Time 10 a.m.
2008 Winner: Statesville Rd Elementary
Participating schools develop a bulletin board highlighting the national fire safety theme to be judged by fire service personnel. A fire safety assembly will be held at the winning school, cash prizes and CFD mascot Blaze will be in attendance.
Sun, Nov 1 "Change Your Clock, Replace Your Alarm Batteries"
2 a.m. The Charlotte Fire Department reminds to replace your batteries in your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm(s) as you change your clocks back for daylight savings time!
"Stay Fire Smart, Don't Get Burned"
For more information about Fire Prevention activities, call the Charlotte Fire Department, Fire & Life Safety Education at 704-336-3970
