2007 Fire Prevention Week Published Oct. 3, 2007 By Hans Christian 1 SOCES/CEFP Hurlburt Field, Fla. -- The Hurlburt Field Fire Emergency Service is proud to announce that National Fire Prevention Week 2007 will be observed Oct. 7-13. The fire emergency service flight conducts fire safety inspections and fire safety programs throughout the year to assist the base and local community. This year's fire prevention week theme is "Practice your escape plan;" therefore escape plans should be emphasized while practicing your home fire drills. Fire prevention week marks the anniversary of the great Chicago fire, which occurred Oct. 9, 1871. On that day, fire destroyed 17,430 buildings at a cost of $168 million. This was one of the largest and most destructive fires in American history. Mrs. O'Leary's famous cow is believed to have started the fire. The cow kicked over a lantern inside her barn. The fire quickly spread to neighboring buildings. After this tragedy, fire prevention codes were written requiring safer construction. To focus attention on this annual observance, the Hurlburt Field Fire Emergency Service has planned a fire truck parade Oct. 6 at 9 a.m. through the Soundside, Pine Shadows, Live Oaks and Commando Village housing areas. They also plan to have firefighters and Sparky the fire dog visit various organizations and facilities throughout the week to promote year-round fire safety. The Hurlburt Field Fire Emergency Service cares about the safety of every member of our Air Force community. During this year's fire prevention week, we urge everyone to take a few minutes to teach your family and friends the following fire safety guidelines: · Use portable fire extinguishers to fight only small fires. Pull the pin, aim at the base of the fire, squeeze the charging handle and sweep back and forth. · Early activation of the 911 system is the key to survival. Call 911 as soon as possible. · Most home fires occur between midnight and 6 a.m. A working smoke detector will save your life, so test your detector each month. · Practice your escape plan. Families that practice together survive together.