[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