Join the Bismarck Fire Department this October in celebrating Fire Prevention Week. The campaign was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. In 1920, President Woodrow Wilson issued the first National Fire Prevention Proclamation, and since 1922, Fire Prevention Week has been observed on the Sunday through Saturday period in which October 9th falls.

This year’s FPW campaign is, “Cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire prevention.” The campaign works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take when cooking to keep themselves and those around them safe.  

Did you know that cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of cooking fires and deaths. 

The Bismarck Fire Department offers these key safety tips to help reduce the risk of a cooking fire.

1. Watch what you heat. Always keep a close eye on what you are cooking. Set a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
2. Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove. Always keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner.
3. Have a “kid- and pet-free zone” of at least 3 feet (1 meter) around the stove or grill and anywhere else hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

Below are several resources you and your family can use to test your knowledge or provide you with information and activities.

About Fire Prevention Week 2023

Fire Prevention Activities

Fire Causes and Risks