City of Goose Creek

The Goose Creek Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years — to promote 2019's Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!”

The campaign works to educate everyone about the small but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe. 

The GCFD's Second Annual Open House at its Headquarters Station will coincide with Fire Prevention Week, and will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12. Everyone is invited to attend this fun and informative, family-friendly event. There will be hot dogs and drinks. 

NFPA statistics show that in 2017 U.S. fire departments responded to 357,000 home structure fires. These fires caused 2,630 fire deaths and 10,600 fire injuries. On average, seven people died in a fire in a home per day during 2012 to 2016. 

“These numbers show that home fires continue to pose a significant threat to safety,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of Outreach and Advocacy. “In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds."

Escape planning and practice can help you make the most of the time you have, giving everyone enough time to get out.

While NFPA and the GCFD are focusing on home fires, these messages apply to virtually any location.

“Situational awareness is a skill people need to use wherever they go,” Goose Creek Fire Chief Steve Chapman said. “No matter where you are, look for available exits. If the alarm system sounds, take it seriously and exit the building immediately.”

To find out more about Fire Prevention Week programs and activities in Goose Creek, call the GCFD at (843) 553-8350.  Learn more about Fire Prevention Week and home escape planning.

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