Fire Prevention Day is an annual observance commemorated every October 9th. Fire accidents are the cause of several deaths. The day aims at promoting awareness on the ways to prevent fire disasters. The celebration of the day recognizes the work of the firefighters who relieve people during those emergency situations.
“It takes 20 seconds to check your smoke alarm, fire disrupts lives forever.” – Jack
History of Fire Prevention Day
The first Fire Prevention Day was celebrated in the year 1920. The observance of the day commemorates the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 in North America. According to legend, the cause of the fire was when Mrs. O’Leary’s milch cow kicked over a lamp in her shed. The fire burned for over 27 hours from October 8 to early October 10, 1871. The fire had killing more than 300 people, destroying over 17,000 structures for about 3.3 square miles in Chicago, Illinois. More than 100,000 people were left homeless. Forty years later in 1911, the Fire Marshall’s Association of North America (FMANA) held the first Fire Prevention Day. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the oldest membership section was the international sponsor. In 1920, President Woodrow Wilson had proclaimed Fire Prevention Week in which October 9 falls. The observance of the anniversary is a way to keep the public informed about the importance of fire prevention.
Other Celebrations on October 9
October 9 is also celebrated as
- World Post Day
- National Face Your Fears Day
- National Moldy Cheese Day
- Curious Events Day
- Beer and Pizza Day
How to Observe the Day
The day can be celebrated by teaching the public about fire preventive measures. Bring in awareness about the ways to save people when in such dangerous situations. You can learn how to use the fire extinguisher and tell how to use it with others. Turn off all the electric appliances when not in the home. Share on social media using the hashtag #FirePreventionDay.
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