[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 131, 115th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 9653 of October 6, 2017

Fire Prevention Week, 2017

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

During Fire Prevention Week, we recognize the dangers posed by fires and
emphasize the importance of fire prevention and preparation. We also
honor our Nation's brave firefighters who have lost their lives in the
line of duty and their families, and those firefighters who continue to
put their lives on the line each day.
Each year, an average 1.4 million fires burn in the United States. In
2015, fires caused approximately 3,360 deaths and 15,700 injuries. This
year, the American West has especially suffered, as wildfires have raged
from California to Oregon and Montana. These fires have already consumed
more than 8 million acres and destroyed more than 650 homes and other
structures. All of this destruction can be sparked by a single careless
act. We must remain vigilant whenever we are around fire. By taking the
appropriate precautions, we can prevent fires, save lives, and protect
property and the environment. In particular, we should always mind
dishes on the stovetop, carefully contain and completely extinguish
campfires, take care to handle fireworks away from flammable materials,
and ensure that cigarettes are handled appropriately and discarded after
use.
When a fire breaks out, every second counts. A working smoke alarm can
buy the few extra moments necessary to save a life. A well-conceived and
regularly practiced plan can help ensure a safe and orderly fire escape
for families. All Americans should create a fire escape plan and
practice it yearly with their families. We must make sure to teach our
children how to escape on their own and make special plans for family
members with limited mobility. The National Fire Protection

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Association's Every Second Counts: Plan Two Ways Out campaign can help
your family prepare for home fires.
As we observe Fire Prevention Week, we pray for the Federal, State,
local, and tribal responders battling the wildfires in the West and
around the country and for all those who have lost their homes to fires.
We recommit ourselves to preventing fire-related disasters by, among
other things, staying current with the latest fire-prevention techniques
and raising awareness about fire-safety practices.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, 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 8 through
October 14, 2017, as Fire Prevention Week. On Sunday, October 8, 2017,
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 sixth day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand seventeen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-
second.
DONALD J. TRUMP