[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 138 (Thursday, October 2, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1973]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              RECOGNIZING OF NATIONAL FIRE PREVENTION WEEK

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                         HON. MICHAEL N. CASTLE

                              of delaware

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 2, 2003

  Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the observance of 
National Fire Prevention Week beginning Sunday, October 5, 2003. 
Celebrated every year since President Calvin Coolidge's official 
proclamation dedicating this week to educating the public on the 
benefits of practicing basic fire prevention measures, National Fire 
Prevention Week has undoubtedly given many the informational tools 
essential to saving lives and preventing unnecessary fire damage.
  This week begins with the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial 
Service in Emmitsburg, Maryland to honor those heroes that lost their 
lives in the line of duty. To honor those that gave the ultimate 
sacrifice, I authored legislation, that became public law in 2001, to 
lower all flags on federal buildings to half staff on this day of 
remembrance.
  During National Fire Prevention Week we must all educate and learn to 
protect ourselves and others. I urge all individuals to take the proper 
steps to ensure the safety of their families and loved-ones by 
installing and routinely checking smoke detectors, developing and 
practicing home evacuation plans, and identifying potential fire 
hazards throughout the home.
  This year's National Fire Prevention Week theme is ``When Fire 
Strikes: Get out! Stay out!'' As a member of the Congressional Fire 
Services Caucus, I know the vital importance of this message. In the 
United States nearly 6,000 people die each year in their homes, nearly 
80 percent of all fire fatalities. Tragically, many fires and can be 
prevented if only individuals practice the proper preventative 
measures.
  Mr. Speaker, I commend the National Fire Protection Association for 
their work each year in commemorating Fire Prevention Week. I also 
would like to thank the fine men and women of our fire and emergency 
services teams for the outstanding job they do in fighting fires and 
saving lives. I ask my colleagues to join me in urging all Americans to 
take the basic precautions that could save their lives.

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