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Moody Fire Department raises fire prevention awareness

By Senior Airman Douglas Ellis, 23d Wing Public Affairs / Published October 15, 2012

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MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Having a plan and knowing escape routes during a fire can save lives. The Moody Fire Department helped spread that message on base and in the local community during Fire Prevention Week Oct. 7 to 13.

The nation has observed National Fire Prevention Week since 1922 to inform the public on fire prevention practices. The week was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire, a fire that killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 people homeless and burned more than 2,000 acres.

"National Fire Prevention Week is the longest running national campaign for safety and prevention," said Guy Chastain, 23d Civil Engineer Squadron fire inspector. "It gives us a chance to educate the community on the dangers of fire and what they can do to prevent it."

The overall goal of Fire Prevention Week is to reduce the loss of life and property from fires.

"We reduce the loss of life and property by raising public awareness and getting the message out," said Chastain. "If people incorporate the information we give in their daily lifestyle, then we will reach our goal."

During the week, Moody firefighters went to local schools and local fire departments to help spread their knowledge about fire prevention.

"Many Moody Airmen live in our local community with their families," said Chastain, "so fire prevention in our local community is just as important there as it is here."

As part of their effort to improve awareness, Sparky the Fire Dog and members of the Moody Fire Department also visited the Moody Child Development Center to inform children on the importance of fire prevention. Fire hats and brochures were distributed at the Base Exchange and Commissary to help educate people and raise awareness.

"The kids really loved Sparky, they gave him hugs and also drew pictures for him," said Melinda Roberts, Moody CDC program technician.

"I think it's awesome that the Moody Fire Department helped children see and learn the importance of fire safety."

The theme for this year's Fire Prevention Week is "Have 2 Ways Out!" which encourages people to be aware of their surroundings and always have two escape routes.

"This year's theme deals a lot with life safety," said Chastain. "Not only is fire prevention important, but knowing how to escape in the event of a fire is also important."