Fire Prevention Week slated here Published Oct. 1, 2008 By David Isbell 47th Flying Training Wing Fire Department, Assistant Chief LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- A potholder too close to a lit burner or a space heater left on overnight could be all it takes to start a home fire. In fact, cooking and heating are among the leading causes of home fires in the United States, according to the nonprofit National Fire Protection Association. That is why Laughlin's Fire Emergency Services is teaming up with NFPA from October 5 to 11 to urge Laughlin residents to "Prevent Home Fires" during Fire Prevention Week. This year's campaign focuses on preventing the leading causes of home fires -- cooking, heating and electrical equipment and smoking materials. Additionally, fire safety educators will be teaching local residents how to develop and practice a home escape in case a fire occurs. According to the latest research from the NFPA, there were approximately 396,000 home fires in 2006, resulting in more than 2,500 deaths and 12,500 injuries. While the number of home fires is daunting, the good news is that many are easily preventable when residents follow simple safety steps. These are some safety steps to help you "Prevent Home Fires" during Fire Prevention Week and year round. · Cooking: Never leave cooking unattended, stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen, for even a short period time, turn off the stove. · Heating: Keep all things that can burn, such as paper, bedding and furniture at least three feet away from heating equipment. · Electrical: Replace cracked and damaged electrical cords; use extension cords for temporary wiring only. Consider having additional circuits or receptacles added by a qualified electrician. · Smoking: If you smoke, smoke outside; wherever you smoke, use deep, sturdy ashtrays. Ensure the butts are thoroughly drenched with water before discarding into a trashcan or dumpster. National Fire Prevention Week is actively supported by fire departments across the country. For 85 years fire departments have observed Fire Prevention Week, making it the longest running public health and safety observance on record. For more information on "It's Fire Prevention Week - Prevent Home Fires!" visit www.firepreventionweek.org or to schedule a home fire prevention inspection call the Fire Prevention Office at 298-5036 or 298-5037 Fire Prevention Week schedule of events SUNDAY, 5 OCTOBER 2008 10 to 11 a.m.: Sparky visits Laughlin Main Gate passing out fire safety brochures MONDAY: 6 OCTOBER 2008 9 to 11 a.m.: Commander's with First Sergeant/Executive Officer Search and Rescue Challenge 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Base Exchange: Fire extinguisher live fire demonstration, fire safety trailer, and passing out fire safety brochures TUESDAY, 7 OCTOBER 2008 4 to 5 p.m.: Sparky visits Club XL parking lot with a fire truck display, fire extinguisher live fire demonstration, fire safety trailer and a Landings at Laughlin booth and display WEDNESDAY, 8 OCTOBER 2008 4 to 5 p.m.: Sparky visits Club Amistad parking lot with a fire truck display, fire extinguisher live-fire demonstration, fire-safety trailer and a Landings at Laughlin booth and display THURSDAY, 9 OCTOBER 2008 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Fire station open house schedule of activities: · Fire trucks display · Smoke house trailer fire safety demonstration · Stove top pan fire demonstration · Portable fire extinguisher live-fire demonstration · Refreshments 1 to 3:30 p.m.: Poster contest winners announced at the Youth Center FRIDAY, 10 OCTOBER 2008 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.: Base Library, children reading session, fire safety video and fire truck display SATURDAY, 11 OCTOBER 2008 10 a.m. to noon: Base Commissary: Portable fire extinguisher live demonstration, public fire education information booth and fire safety trailer