It may seem like a normal week for many, but for firefighters across the nation, it’s a week of reflection and educating the public about fire prevention.
October 3rd to October 9th is Fire Prevention Week.
Jasper Fire Department Chief, Kenny Hochgesang, says the week was designated over a century ago.
“It started many years ago with the Great Fire of Chicago. The fire burnt a big portion of the city,” he says.
According to history.com, the “Great Chicago Fire” began on October 8th. It lasted for two days, killed 200 to 300 people, and destroyed 17,450 buildings. Since then, firefighters across the country have spent the first week of October recognizing fallen firefighters and educating the public about how to prevent fires.
In Indiana, the week began on Sunday. Governor Eric Holcomb directed flags to be flown at half-mast in honor of National Fallen Firefighters Day.
Hochgesang explains what types of activities they have been doing throughout the week.
“We’ve been visiting schools with fire prevention material for the kids and discussing all of the do’s and don’ts of fire safety,” he says.
While fire safety is on the mind this week, Hochgesang also says it’s the perfect time for residents to check their smoke detectors.
“If you have a working smoke detector, there’s no reason why you can’t get out of your house safely. It will alert you very early on, as soon as the fire starts. Having one with fresh batteries can definitely save your life and the lives of others,” he says.
Hochgesang says the events associated with National Fire Safety Week will come to an end on Sunday.
“There are three girls from Dubois County competing for District 18 Miss Queen this Sunday in Chrisney, followed by a parade,” he says.
The 2021 Indiana Volunteer Firefighters Association District 18 Parade takes place on Sunday, October 10th. Participants will line up at the Spencer County Community Center at 12 noon CST, with the parade beginning at 1 pm.
If you have any questions, contact Kent Groves at k_groves@chrisneyfire.org or call (812)-686-2601.
