Saturday, October 2, 2010

Local Fire Stations Recognize National Fire Prevention Week

Area Firefighters Host Events to Raise Community Awareness
National Fire Prevention Week is October 3 - 9, 2010, and both Fairfax County and the City of Alexandria will hold events to educate the public about firefighters and fire safety.


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.

For 89 years, Fire Prevention Week has been sponsored by the National Fire Prevention Association and is proclaimed by the President of the United States each year. This is the longest running safety commemoration and is the premier fire safety program of the fire service.



Friday, October 8 – Memorial Service and Wreath Laying for Fallen Firefighters
The Alexandria Fire Department will observe National Fire Prevention Week with a Memorial Service and Wreath Laying at 11 a.m. The solemn ceremony is held each year at Ivy Hill Cemetery (2823 King St.) to honor those who have died in the line of duty and to mark the passing of those members of the department who died during the preceding 12 months. During 2010, there was one job-related death of a retiree in the line of duty; six retired members of the department also died during the past year.
Saturday, October 9 – Open Houses at Fire Stations Throughout the City of Alexandria
In recognition of National Fire Prevention Week, all Alexandria Fire Stations, with the exception of the Department's Del Ray Fire Station, will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Each station will open their doors to the community, host family-oriented activities, and hand out fire prevention educational materials. Fire apparatus and station tours will be also be available. Check out the location of your nearest City fire station, and make plans to attend an open house near you!

Saturday, October 9 – In an effort to prevent home fires before they start, the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department will host Fire Prevention Week Open House, Saturday, October 9, 2010, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at all stations throughout the county. The theme for Fire Prevention Week is, “Smoke Alarms:  A Sound You Can Live With!” 

Firefighters and paramedics will have displays and activities emphasizing fire safety, including preventing fires and fire injuries, especially in the home. Residents are encouraged to visit a nearby fire and rescue station to participate in the activities and learn more about fire safety. Click here for a list of fire stations in Fairfax County. 


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