Fire Prevention Week, 2017

Vol. 82

Friday,

No. 197

October 13, 2017

Part VII

The President

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Proclamation 9653--Fire Prevention Week, 2017

Proclamation 9654--National School Lunch Week, 2017

Proclamation 9655--National Manufacturing Day, 2017

Proclamation 9656--Columbus Day, 2017

Proclamation 9657--Leif Erikson Day, 2017

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Title 3--
The President

Proclamation 9653 of October 6, 2017

Fire Prevention Week, 2017

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

During Fire Prevention Week, we recognize the dangers
posed by fires and emphasize the importance of fire
prevention and preparation. We also honor our Nation's
brave firefighters who have lost their lives in the
line of duty and their families, and those firefighters
who continue to put their lives on the line each day.

Each year, an average 1.4 million fires burn in the
United States. In 2015, fires caused approximately
3,360 deaths and 15,700 injuries. This year, the
American West has especially suffered, as wildfires
have raged from California to Oregon and Montana. These
fires have already consumed more than 8 million acres
and destroyed more than 650 homes and other structures.
All of this destruction can be sparked by a single
careless act. We must remain vigilant whenever we are
around fire. By taking the appropriate precautions, we
can prevent fires, save lives, and protect property and
the environment. In particular, we should always mind
dishes on the stovetop, carefully contain and
completely extinguish campfires, take care to handle
fireworks away from flammable materials, and ensure
that cigarettes are handled appropriately and discarded
after use.

When a fire breaks out, every second counts. A working
smoke alarm can buy the few extra moments necessary to
save a life. A well-conceived and regularly practiced
plan can help ensure a safe and orderly fire escape for
families. All Americans should create a fire escape
plan and practice it yearly with their families. We
must make sure to teach our children how to escape on
their own and make special plans for family members
with limited mobility. The National Fire Protection
Association's Every Second Counts: Plan Two Ways Out
campaign can help your family prepare for home fires.

As we observe Fire Prevention Week, we pray for the
Federal, State, local, and tribal responders battling
the wildfires in the West and around the country and
for all those who have lost their homes to fires. We
recommit ourselves to preventing fire-related disasters
by, among other things, staying current with the latest
fire-prevention techniques and raising awareness about
fire-safety practices.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the
United States, do hereby proclaim October 8 through
October 14, 2017, as Fire Prevention Week. On Sunday,
October 8, 2017, in accordance with Public Law 107-51,
the flag of the United States will be flown at half-
staff at all Federal office buildings in honor of the
National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service. I call
on all Americans to participate in this observance with
appropriate programs and activities and by renewing
their efforts to prevent fires and their tragic
consequences.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
sixth day of October, in the year of our Lord two
thousand seventeen, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and forty-
second.