Although Fire Prevention Week has come to an end, it’s far from over for your Bay District volunteers. With the large number of schools and daycares in our community, October serves as Fire Prevention Month for us. By the end of the month, your Bay District volunteers will have visited more than 21 schools and daycares, sharing important fire safety lessons with thousands of children, teachers, and caregivers.

But our efforts don’t stop there - fire prevention is a year-round commitment. Your Bay District volunteers are always ready to promote fire safety, answer questions, or help residents install new smoke alarms. Even though Fire Prevention Week may be wrapping up, it’s important for everyone to keep fire safety top of mind throughout the year.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 344,600 home fires in 2023, resulting in 2,490 civilian deaths and 8,000 injuries. Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire by nearly 50 percent, yet nearly three out of five home fire deaths occur in homes where smoke alarms are missing or not functioning properly.

The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) also reports that more than 4,400 people die in fires each year nationwide, and many of these tragedies are preventable with simple safety measures.

“As firefighters, we see firsthand how a working smoke alarm or a practiced escape plan can mean the difference between life and death,” said Fire Chief Jason Turner. “Our goal is not just to respond when an emergency happens, but to help prevent that emergency in the first place. Fire prevention is truly everyone’s responsibility, every day of the year.”

As Fire Prevention Month continues, the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department encourages everyone to take a few minutes to review their home fire safety plan:

Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.

Install smoke alarms inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home.

Create and practice a home escape plan with all family members—know two ways out of every room.

Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from space heaters or open flames.

Never leave cooking unattended, and always turn off the stove if you leave the kitchen.

Fire prevention isn’t just a week or a month—it’s a way of life. Together, we can keep our community safe all year long.