Fire prevention community event set for Sept. 29

  • Published
  • By Daniel Peterson
  • 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- The 788th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire Department is holding its annual Fire Prevention Week kick-off Sept. 29 from 3-6 p.m. in the parking lot behind the Wright Field South Child Development Center at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

The event serves as an introduction to the National Fire Protection Association’s Fire Prevention Week, taking place Oct. 8-14. The annual observance is held every October and works to educate the public about the leading causes of house fires and how they can identify risk factors to protect themselves and their family.

A child puts on a fire helmet.

Idris French, 5, puts on his new firefighter helmet during the Sept. 30, 2022, fire prevention community event at The Prairies Child Development Center, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. This year’s event theme was “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape.” (U.S. Air Force photo by Hannah Carranza)
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The Sept. 29 event, hosted by the WPAFB Fire Department, will feature a “Firefighter Challenge” for children, carnival games, fire trucks, static displays and fire safety “hazard house.” Throughout the week, base firefighters will be on site welcoming visitors during normal hours of operation and providing tours of WPAFB’s three fire stations.

The emphasis for this year’s event is “Cooking safety starts with YOU.” The WPAFB Fire Department will provide the community with important safety information, tips and items to stay safe while in the kitchen.

 According to NFPA, cooking is the leading cause of house fires. Almost half of these fires resulted from the use of equipment or cooking left unattended. That's why it is imperative to practice smart fire prevention while in the kitchen.

A firefighter in a blue shirt rests his hand on one of the lights of a firetruck as to explain to the children standing in front of him what it is and how it works.

A Wright-Patterson Fire Department member describes different parts of a firetruck to children as part of National Night Out, hosted by the 88th Security Forces Squadron on Aug. 1 at the Prairies military housing area. The annual event gives community members an opportunity to communicate with and learn more about the police and firefighters who protect the area. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class James Johnson)
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The following cooking safety messages come from the NFPA website (www.nfpa.org):

  • Always keep a close eye on what you’re cooking. For foods with longer cook times, such as those simmering or baking, set a timer to help monitor them carefully.
  • Clear the cooking area of combustible items and anything that can burn, such as dish towels, oven mitts, food packaging and paper towels.
  • Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove. Keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner.
  • Create a “kid and pet free zone” of at least 3 feet around the cooking area and anywhere else hot food or drinks are prepared or carried.

For more Fire Prevention Week information or to schedule a fire station visit, contact the WPAFB Fire Department at 937-257-4075.