October is Fire Prevention Month…Let’s keep this killer under control!

October is Fire Prevention Month.  Throughout Minnesoa, fire departments will conduct open house events or send firefighters to area schools to discuss fire safety.  However, there is a growing epidemic in Minnesota and across this country.  Fire deaths involving those age 50 and older are on a dramatic increase.  So far this year, nearly 72% of the fire deaths in Minnesota are those who are 50+.  The causes of these fatal fires vary, but careless smoking is one of the most common.  Fire is an equal opportunity killer.  It doesn’t matter if you are young or old, rich or poor.  Fire never takes a vacation and can strike at a moment’s notice.  While we focus a lot of our October fire prevention activities towards the young like school children, we need to be aware that a majority of our fire deaths occur with our older citizens.  This month, let’s also focus our fire prevention efforts on getting the word out to our older population.  The Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s Office has an excellent Powerpoint presentation, which deals with Senior Fire Safety.  This presentation is available through the Fire Marshal’s website.  Going to senior group meetings is also a good idea.  Let’s keep this killer (fire) under control!