Fire Prevention Day is a holiday observed on October 9th, during National Fire Prevention Week. This day, as well as the entire week, is dedicated to helping people become more aware of fire risks so they can take steps to keep themselves and their families safe.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, approximately 3,515 people died in fires in the United States. Although that’s a decrease from the 2018 figure of 11.7 people per million to 10.7 people per million, this number can still be improved. That’s why everyone should take the time to observe this day and the entire week surrounding it.

The History of Fire Prevention Day

Fire Prevention Day is a holiday that dates back over 100 years in North America. Shortly after WWI, resolutions were passed urging Canada and the U.S. to support a campaign for an annual holiday dedicated to preventing fires.

The day became a holiday in both countries in 1919. In 1920, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson established National Fire Prevention Week. This holiday and week have been observed ever since.

Nowadays, the international sponsor of both holidays is the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), although fire departments across Canada and the U.S. also support them every year. Each year, the NFPA selects a theme for the celebration of this day and week to emphasize certain aspects of fire safety.

In 2001, the theme was “Cover the Bases and Strike Out Fire,” in 2020 it was “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen,” in 2021 it was “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety,” and in 2022 the theme was “Fire Won’t Wait. Plan Your Escape.”

Important Facts About Fire Safety

Below are just a few basic facts about fire safety that we believe everyone should know. We hope that these facts will help people keep their homes as safe as possible, not only as they observe Fire Prevention Day but all year round.

• Approximately 30% of fires start in the kitchen.
• In 1997, 1.8 million fires occurred in the United States.
• Smoke inhalation is the primary cause of death in fatal fires in the United States.

Observing Fire Prevention Day

Fire Prevention Day is an important day for people to observe to keep themselves and their families safe. On this day, people are encouraged to learn more about fire safety, create a fire escape plan for their family, and ensure that their home is safe.

This means installing smoke alarms and testing them regularly, keeping a fire extinguisher on hand, and knowing what to do to prevent fires in the first place. We encourage people to spread the word about this holiday by using the hashtag #FirePreventionDay on social media.