By Michael V. Crismali, Correspondent
The saying goes “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” With that in mind, it is time once again for fire departments all over the country to spread the word about fire prevention in their local towns and communities.
In 1920, President Woodrow Wilson issued the first National Fire Prevention Day proclamation, and since 1922, Fire Prevention Week has been observed on the Sunday through Saturday period in which Oct. 9 falls. This year’s theme is “Don’t Wait – Check the Date. Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 years”
Members of East Windsor Volunteer Fire Company No. 2 are hosting a fire prevention open house in an effort to spread the word about just how critical preventing fires before they occur can be.
The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, at the East Windsor Volunteer Fire Company No. 2, 69 Twin Rivers Drive, East Windsor. There is no charge for the event.
This open house will be an opportunity for the community to meet some of the firefighters, learn about the gear and equipment they use, and even go for a ride in the fire truck. Kids will have an opportunity to earn a junior firefighter certificate by participating in some supervised activities meant to simulate some of what a firefighter does. There will also be a live demonstration illustrating some critical information about kitchen safety in which you will learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher.
As part of the Fire Prevention Week observance, members of East Windsor Volunteer Fire Company 2 will also be visiting area schools, giving students tips on fire safety and offering various demonstrations on fire fighting equipment.
“The best way to educate families is through the children,” said Co. 2 Fire Chief Steve Genthe. “They learn quickly, absorb information quickly and serve as a vital safety information conduit to their parents.”
The purpose of “Fire Prevention Week” is simply to be aware – and use common sense, as most fires can be prevented. Don’t smoke in bed or when you’ve consumed alcohol; be extra careful in the use of candles; use caution with extension cords, keep matches away from children and have a home fire extinguisher.
