Fire Prevention Week was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire, the tragic 1871 conflagration that killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures and burned more than 2,000 acres. The fire began on October 8, but continued into and did most of its damage on October 9, 1871.

Fire Prevention Week begins October 9th and Fire and Emergency Services are reminding residents about the importance of checking the expiration dates on all smoke and carbon monoxide alarms through this year’s campaign ‘Don’t Wait, Check the Date!’  Replace smoke alarms every 10 years.

Here is additional information along with Sparky showing how you can check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms: www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week.

Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

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