Fire Prevention Week kicks off with parade

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Devante Williams
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  National Fire Prevention Week is Saturday through Oct. 10 and is designed to raise awareness of fire prevention with a focus on ensuring that people check their smoke detectors every month.

Fire prevention week began in 1920 when President Woodrow Wilson declared Oct. 9 as National Fire Prevention Day. The day was chosen because of its historic connection to the Great Chicago Fire, which took 300 lives, left 300,000 people homeless and destroyed more than 17,500 buildings.

The 56th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire Services began the awareness week by having a parade around base and through housing that featured fire trucks and Sparky the Fire Dog. Afterward, they hosted an open house at the fire station and had free hot dogs, displays, demonstrations and games for children.

"This fire prevention week gives us the opportunity to teach and encourage fire safety in the house," said Chief Master Sgt. Christopher Horsman, 56th CES fire chief. "The theme this year is 'Smoke Detectors.' Check them twice every month, and make sure they work. Many lives can be saved by having a functional smoke detector."

Sparky and some firefighters visited the Child Development Center this week to help younger Thunderbolts understand what to do during a fire.

Luke Fire Emergency Services set up displays at the commissary and the Exchange Monday through today. There are hands-on demonstrations, a fire extinguisher demonstration, fire vehicles on display, an information booth, visits by Sparky, a car-seat check and booster give away.

"The fire department is making sure it sends out their fire safety tips to everyone on base," said Lt. Col. Kenneth Herndon, 56th CES commander. "I appreciate Luke's participation in attending the open house, and I hope everyone takes the information from the event and uses it to prevent house fires."