Richmond, Va. –
Defense Logistics Agency Installation Management Richmond’s Fire and Emergency Services is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign. This year’s theme is “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!”
NFPA statistics show that in 2017, U.S. fire departments responded to 357,000 home structure fires. These fires caused 2,630 fire deaths and 10,600 fire injuries. On average, seven people died in home fires per day during 2012 to 2016.
“These numbers show that home fires continue to pose a significant threat to safety,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of Outreach and Advocacy in this year’s FPW press release. “In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Escape planning and practice can help you make the most of the time you have, giving everyone enough time to get out.”
While NFPA is focused on home fire safety, these messages can apply to virtually any location. The installation’s Fire and EMS professionals are working to educate everyone about the small but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe during emergencies.
“DLA personnel should maintain a high degree of situational awareness to remain safe at work and home,” said Rick Ferrell, assistant fire chief, Fire and Emergency Services, DLA Installation Management Richmond. “No matter where you are, look for available exits. If the alarm system sounds, take it seriously and exit the building immediately.”
DLA Installation Management Richmond’s F&EMS personnel are hosting a series of events in support of this year’s campaign. Some events including showcasing displays and conducting walk-throughs of installation areas by Sparky, the fire dog, who will provide valuable informational handouts on fire safety.
Other scheduled events are as follows:
Oct. 10 - 9:30 - 11 a.m. Betty Ackermann-Cobb Child Development Center visit at Bldg 100
Oct. 11 - 8:30 – 11 a.m. walk throughs at DLA Distribution Richmond and DLA Aviation Mapping Division
To find out more about installation programs and activities, please contact the DLA Installation Management Richmond, Fire & EMS’ Fire Prevention Office at (804)279-6782 or email us at dscr.fireprevention@dla.mil. For more information about Fire Prevention Week and home escape planning, visit www.fpw.org.