Fire prevention week kicks off Saturday Published Oct. 23, 2006 Luke Fire Emergency Services LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- Each year, fires kill or injure thousands of Americans and destroy or damage billions of dollars worth of property. Many of these fires might have been prevented by taking appropriate precautions and following safety guidelines. During Fire Prevention Week, the fire department highlights the need to prevent and prepare for fires, and we raise awareness of fire safety. Each year, the National Fire Protection Association and the United Fire prevention week kicks off Saturday States Fire Administration raise awareness during Fire Prevention Week. This year's theme is "Prevent Cooking Fires, Watch What You Heat." Although the number of home fires has declined in recent years, the number of fires caused by cooking has risen dramatically. Fortunately, the risk of cooking fires can be lessened by following a few basic guidelines, including never leaving cooking unattended. While many fires can be prevented by following precautions, families should still be prepared for the possibility of a fire by having working smoke alarms on every level of their homes. Families should also have a fire escape plan in place to help get everyone out of the home safely in case of an emergency.