This week, the Chester County Commissioners joined other local, county, state, and federal officials in recognizing Fire Prevention Week 2020. The Commissioners signed a proclamation noting October 4th through the 10th as Fire Prevention Week in Chester County.
Fire Prevention Week is dedicated to emphasizing the importance of fire prevention and safety, as well as recognizing the Fire Service's contributions to public safety. The Commissioners’ proclamation said, “We recognize the life-saving efforts of our Emergency Responders whose unselfish service truly makes our community a better place to live.”
The Commissioners’ proclamation highlighted that there were no fire-related deaths in Chester County in 2019, but did note the devastation caused by fire in Chester County in 2019, including 44 civilians who suffered injury from fire, and property damage that totaled in excess of $44 million.
Chester County Chief Fire Marshal John Weer said, “Due to the dedication of our emergency responders, and the fire safety education programs they do throughout the year, it’s been proven that fire prevention does save lives.
“2019 was the first year in at least the past 30 years that we have had zero reported fire deaths. Our residents and our emergency responders should strive to continue this goal in the future and practice fire safety every day,” Weer added.
Fire Prevention Week has been a successful public safety campaign for over 90 years, thanks to the millions of firefighters across the United States who work hard to reach the citizens they serve with fire safety messages. In Chester County, the majority of firefighters are volunteers.
This year’s national Fire Prevention Week theme, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen,” reminds everyone to practice fire safety, especially in the kitchen. Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States.
Historically, fire companies throughout Chester County have held open houses during Fire Prevention Week to encourage local residents to experience fire safety and learn about volunteerism. Because of COVID-19, this year’s “open houses” will take a virtual approach with website videos that showcase Fire Prevention Week. Chester County residents are encouraged to visit their local fire company website to find out more about the practices leading to fire prevention and safety.