During Fire Prevention Week, my Administration honors the memory of America’s courageous firefighters and first responders for their extraordinary service and sacrifice. We are reaffirming our commitment to strengthening fire prevention and emergency response across the Nation.  I encourage every American to take simple steps to protect their homes, families, and communities from preventable fires. 

Fire safety begins at home.  Every family can take precautions to prevent fires, and to better protect themselves and their loved ones.  These can include mapping out a home escape plan, testing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms every month, replacing the worn wiring and overloaded outlets that spark so many household fires, or practicing safe charging habits that minimize the potential of fires from ubiquitous electronic devices.  These commonsense steps can save lives by preventing fire or by ensuring families are prepared in the event of an emergency.   

My Administration remains committed to protecting American lives from the threat of fires and improving our country’s ability to prevent and respond to them.  Last year, I signed an Executive Order to streamline Federal wildfire response, strengthen local preparedness, and put modern technology to work detecting and fighting fires.  We are also working to establish the United States Wildland Fire Service to better coordinate Federal wildfire programs and respond more effectively when fires break out.

This week, we also honor America’s extraordinary firefighters, first responders, emergency personnel, and volunteers who selflessly respond whenever the alarm sounds.  Their determination to aid fellow Americans in distress embodies the highest American ideals of heroism, courage, and service to others.  Together, we recommit to preventing fires, protecting our communities, and building a Nation more prepared, more ready, and more resilient than ever before.