    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 128, 113th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 9185--OCT. 3, 2014

    Proclamation 9185 of October 3, 2014

    Fire Prevention Week, 2014

    By the President of the United States of America

    A Proclamation

    Fires can take lives, devastate communities, and destroy our homes and
    businesses. They pose a threat to Americans across our Nation, and they
    cost us billions of dollars each year. As we mark Fire Prevention Week,
    we emphasize the importance of taking steps to prevent fires, and we
    recognize the selflessness of those who answer the call to fight these
    blazes, placing themselves in danger to help others.
    All Americans can protect themselves by taking precautions to guard
    against fires. This week's theme, ``Smoke Alarms Save Lives: Test Yours
    Every Month,'' reminds us of the importance of installing and
    maintaining smoke alarms in the places we live and work. Powerful and
    unpredictable, fire spreads rapidly and widely. That is why I encourage
    every American to develop and practice fire evacuation plans that will
    allow for swift exits from regularly visited places. It is our
    responsibility to teach our children about fire prevention and do every

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    thing we can to protect our loved ones during these emergencies. To
    learn more about fire safety, visit www.Ready.gov.
    This year, our Nation has suffered tragic losses as wildfires ravage
    States across our country. As wildfires increase in frequency and
    intensity in a changing climate, fire prevention and planning only
    become more urgent. My Administration continues to take action to
    increase our Nation's preparedness and resiliency, and every person can
    do his or her part. Americans who live near woodlands should clear
    flammable vegetation away from homes and buildings, and everyone can be
    ready by making an emergency kit and discussing evacuation routes and
    emergency plans with their families.
    We owe a great debt to our brave first responders and firefighters who
    run toward the scene of a disaster to fight fires. They are heroes who
    demonstrate courage, determination, and professionalism every day as
    they battle flames and smoke and teach their neighbors how to protect
    themselves. During Fire Prevention Week, we recognize our duty to be
    vigilant and take action to avert fires, and we remember the sacrifices
    of those who gave their lives so others might live.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
    the laws of the United States do hereby proclaim October 5 through
    October 11, 2014, as Fire Prevention Week. On Sunday, October 12, 2014,
    in accordance with Public Law 107-51, the flag of the United States will
    be flown at half-staff at all Federal office buildings in honor of the
    National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service. I call on all Americans
    to participate in this observance with appropriate programs and
    activities and by renewing their efforts to prevent fires and their
    tragic consequences.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of
    October, in the year of our Lord two thousand fourteen, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
    ninth.
    BARACK OBAMA