MFD observes Fire Prevention Week, stresses importance of smoke alarms

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The Midland Fire Department annually observes Fire Prevention Week every October. | Facebook

The Midland Fire Department (MFD) addressed fire alarm safety as part of Fire Prevention Week 2024.

According to an October 7 Facebook post attributed to MFD, this year’s theme is "Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!"

The department provided three key tips on the proper use of smoke alarms at home. These include placing smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement; testing smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button to ensure they are functioning correctly; and replacing all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or if they stop responding when tested.

According to the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) website, Fire Prevention Week dates back to 1922. President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed it a national observance three years later, making it the longest-running public health observance in the nation. Annually observed during the week of October 9, Fire Prevention Week commemorates the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.