Commemorate 100 years of fire prevention Saturday

ROSEBURG, Ore. – Local residents are invited when the Roseburg Fire Department hosts a commemorative event on Saturday, Oct. 15, to honor the 100-year anniversary of Fire Prevention Week.

The 100 Year Fire Prevention Week Celebration will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the fire apparatus bays at the Roseburg Public Safety Center, 700 S.E. Douglas Avenue.

Attendees will be able to meet their local firefighters, spray water from a fire hose, learn about fire safety, meet Sparky the Fire Dog, receive free goodie bags and more. The event will include free hot dogs, cake and other refreshments. Individuals and families are invited to attend the public event.

Since 1922, the National Fire Protection Association has sponsored a public observance of Fire Prevention Week.

Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of October 9 to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire that began October 8, 1871. The devastating and horrific fire killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures and burned more than 2,000 acres of land including the city center.

Fire Prevention Week, also celebrated as Fire Prevention Month, is an observed time for firefighters and educators to provide public education to both children and adults on fire prevention in an effort to prevent fires and decrease casualties caused by fire. Fire Prevention Week is also an opportunity for children and adults to practice their home exit drills, check their smoke alarms and ensure their home or business is fire safe.

For more information about the Roseburg Fire Department, visit www.cityofroseburg.org or facebook.com/roseburgfire.