Fire Prevention Day
About Fire Prevention Day
When is Fire Prevention Day? This holiday is always observed on October 9
Today is Fire Prevention Day, an October 9 holiday. According to legend, on October 8, 1871, Mrs. O’Leary was in her barn, milking her cow. The cow kicked over a lamp, which started the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The fire burned for over 27 hours. When it was over, more than 300 people were killed, 100,000 people were left homeless, and over 17,000 structures were destroyed. This and other major fires caused a movement to proclaim this holiday.
The Great Chicago fire sparked major efforts in fire prevention. Forty years later, the Fire Marshall’s Association of North America(FMANA) held the first Fire Prevention Day. In 1920, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Fire Prevention Week.
Did You Know? Dalmatians became fire dogs because they were often kept around the horses at firehouses to guard them.
Remember “EDITH”, which stands for “Exit Drills In The Home”. Today is a good day to have a practice drill.
Note: Fire prevention week is during the week in which October 9 falls. The Saturday during this week is Fire Service Recognition Day.
How to Participate in Fire Prevention Day
- Fire departments around the country hold sessions and seminars to teach fire prevention and safety.
- Schools have fire drills and hold lessons on fire prevention.
- Families conduct an EDITH exercise.
- Businesses conduct fire drills.
- Learn more about famous fires both nationally and locally.
Today's Quote
“Time is the fire which we burn.” – – Gene Roddenberry
History and Origin of Fire Prevention Day
In 1919 a resolution was made to urge the U.S. and Canadian governments to proclaim this day as Fire Prevention Day. In 1930, President Woodrow Wilson made this proclamation as an annual event.
The date of October 9 was selected, as it was the day the Great Chicago fire ended.
More October 9 Holidays
Here are more October 9 holidays for you to celebrate and enjoy:
More About Today
Recipe of the Day: Cranberry Apple Sauce Cake
Also See: Pumpkin Recipes Galore and Holiday Recipes and Halloween Recipes
Pumpkin Nook – Visit the folks that know everything about pumpkins. Halloween, too.
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