Public Information Office 210 S. McDonald Street Suite 626 McKinney, Texas 75069 www.collincountytx.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 4, 2005

Candles are the theme for 2005 Fire Prevention Week

(McKinney, TX) -- During 2002, candles in American homes caused an estimated 18,000 structure fires, 130 civilian deaths, 1,350 civilian injuries and $333 million in estimated direct property damage. Because of these statistics, the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) chose a 2005 Fire Prevention Week theme in order to highlight a growing home fire concern. The theme, “Use candles with care: When you go out, blow out,” is a memorable and effective safety message.

2005 Fire Prevention Week is October 9-15.

“Candles are very popular, especially with young people and even in the workplace,” describes Collin County Fire Marshal Steve Deffibaugh. “This is why it is important to remind folks to make wise decisions when burning candles.”

Nationwide, home candle fires have risen steadily over the last decade. Forty-one percent of U.S. home candle fires begin in the bedroom, causing 24-percent of the deaths resulting from these fires.

“This is why it is so important not to use old candles and to never leave candles unattended,” says Deffibaugh.

In addition to using candles safely, Collin County residents are urged to ensure that smoke alarms are installed on every level of the home and kept working with monthly testing and annual battery replacement. All smoke alarms should be replaced with a new unit after 10 years. October is a good time to remember to replace smoke alarm batteries, too, because the time changes at 2 a.m. on October 30th. Each member of the household also needs to know the fire escape plan, and all should practice it twice a year.

In an effort to battle home fires before they start, the Collin County Fire Marshal’s Office is taking a lead role in Fire Prevention Week by visiting local schools in hopes to raise awareness of key fire safety issues, helping students prevent fires and fire injuries, especially at home.

Collin County residents can learn more about candle safety and all forms of fire prevention by visiting NFPA’s official Fire Prevention Week website: www.firepreventionweek.org. Collin County Fire Marshal information can also be found at the Collin County website, www.collincountytx.gov.

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