I just happen to be sitting in Chicago’s O’Hare airport waiting for my plane to take me back to “sweet home” Alabama, and since October is National Fire Prevention Month, my thoughts wandered to that famous Chicagoan, Mrs. O’leary, and her cow, Daisy.
This duo, whether guilty or not, is forever tied to the Great Chicago Fire of 1871--October 8 to be exact. The fire lasted over two days, destroyed more than 3.5 square miles of the city, did more than $2 million dollars in damage and killed more than 300 people. Hence, October is always the host of a fire safety campaign by the NFSA (National Fire Safety Association).
This year’s campaign slogan is “Not every hero wears a cape. Plan and practice your escape.” If you have school-age children, they will probably be talking about activities at school revolving around this event. You can access the website www.nfpa.org to find out more.
Over the next few weeks, this column will be dedicated to the same topic and things you can do to prepare and protect your family and get all family members involved in this very important activity.
Statistically, more than 3,500 people will die by fire this year. In 2018, 64 firefighters died on duty. Anyone can be subject to this danger at any time, and preparation and planning is important to every family.
By the way, Daisy was never proven guilty, and many things contributed to the severity of the Chicago fire. For example, the structures were mostly wooden at that time and a far cry from the 36-story hotel I just left.
Next week, elements of a family fire safety plan. Remember, help is just around the corner at your local hardware store.
