Murrieta Encouraged to Partner for Fire Safety

Do your part to decrease the risk of fire, asks the National Fire Protection Agency, in cooperation with fire departments throughout the country this week.

Fire Prevention Week--first observed in 1922--is the longest running public health and safety program observed by the nation, according to a news release. This year, it began Oct. 9 and ends Oct. 15.

It serves as a reminder of the tragic Chicago fire that burned multiple large buildings in the city’s center and killed more than 250 people, as well as the Peshtigo Fire, a forest fire that destroyed 16 towns in Wisconsin and Michigan, killing 1,152 people and burning more than 1.2 million acres.

Both occurred on Oct. 8, 1871.

Fifty-one years after the deadly, destructive fires, Fire Prevention Week was first observed--during October--to remember the heroism of those events and to educate the public about fire prevention.

"These two fires remind us of the destruction that can be caused by fire," said Murrieta fire paramedic/engineer Matt Corelli, the department's spokesperson.

To cap off the week,

"This event is designed to educate the public on home fire safety and fire prevention techniques within our community," Corelli said.

The open house takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Fire Station No. 2, 40060 California Oaks Road, Murrieta.

It will include station tours, static displays, demonstrations and lots of activities for children to learn about fire safety in the home. Free hot dogs and other refreshments will be served.

"The public is welcome to meet their local firefighters and learn how to prevent fires in the home," Corelli said.

For safety tips offered as part of the national observance, visit Firepreventionweek.org.