[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 41 (Monday, October 17, 2005)]
[Pages 1521-1522]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7941--Fire Prevention Week, 2005

 October 7, 2005

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Each year, fires kill or injure thousands of Americans and destroy 
or damage billions of dollars worth of property. Many of these fires 
might have been prevented by taking appropriate precautions and 
following safety guidelines. During Fire Prevention Week, we highlight 
the need to prevent and prepare for fires, and we raise awareness of 
fire safety. We also honor our Nation's brave firefighters.
    Each year, the National Fire Protection Association and the 
Department of Homeland Security's United States Fire Administration 
raise awareness during Fire Prevention Week. This year's theme is ``Use 
Candles with Care.'' Although the number of home fires has declined in 
recent years, the number of fires caused by candles has risen 
dramatically. Fortunately, the risk of candle fires can be lessened by 
following a few basic guidelines, including never leaving candles 
unattended, keeping them away from flammable items, and always keeping 
them out of reach of children.
    While many fires can be prevented by following precautions, families 
should still be prepared for the possibility of a fire by having working 
smoke alarms on every level of their homes. Families should also have a 
fire escape plan in place to help get everyone out of the home safely in 
case of an emergency.
    When fires occur, Americans depend on our courageous firefighters to 
be first on the scene and to save lives. Each year, more than 100 of our 
country's firefighters die in the line of duty. Americans are grateful 
for the brave men and women who put themselves in harm's way to rescue 
and protect their fellow citizens. During Fire Prevention Week, we 
recognize these heroes and honor their sacrifice.
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States 
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution 
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 9 through 
October 15, 2005, as Fire Prevention Week. On Sunday, October 9, 2005, 
in accordance with Public Law 107-51, the flag of the United States will 
be flown at half-staff on all Federal office buildings in honor of the 
National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service. I invite the people of 
the United States to participate in this observance by flying our 
Nation's flag over their homes at half-staff on this day, to mark this 
week with appropriate programs and activities, and to renew efforts 
throughout the year to prevent fires and their tragic consequences.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of 
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
thirtieth.
                                                George W. Bush

[[Page 1522]]

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 9:18 a.m., October 12, 
2005]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on October 
13. This item was not received in time for publication in the 
appropriate issue.