National Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of October 9th in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871, and caused devastating damage. This horrific conflagration killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures, and burned more than 2,000 acres of land or 3.3 square miles. Another major blaze was occurring at the same time in Peshtigo Wisconsin, 253 miles north of Chicago, where over 2000 people perished in a wildfire that destroyed 16 communities and over 2 million trees.

Our Annual Open House will be held on October 4th from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. to kick-off Fire Prevention Week. This year, we will have hands-on learning stations for both adults and children. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is focusing on working smoke alarms this year. Don't miss out on this opportunity to meet your local firefighters and emergency medical responders and learn about fire prevention and life saving techniques. We hope you will take time to visit us. Please see the attached flyer for more information.