National Fire Prevention Week

Celebrated on 10/09/2026

Quick Fact

National Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of October 9th, commemorating the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. That devastating fire killed over 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, and destroyed more than 17,000 buildings. A popular myth claims that Mrs. O'Leary's cow started the fire by kicking over a lantern, but the true cause remains unknown.

Origins and Establishment of National Fire Prevention Week

The Great Chicago Fire of October 8–10, 1871, burned 2,000 acres, destroyed 17,500 buildings, and killed hundreds. In its aftermath, fire prevention became a national priority. In 1911, the Fire Marshals Association of North America (now the International Fire Marshals Association) proposed a national fire prevention day. President Woodrow Wilson issued the first National Fire Prevention Day proclamation in 1920. In 1922, the observance was expanded to a full week, and National Fire Prevention Week became official.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over the decades, National Fire Prevention Week has evolved from a local awareness campaign into a nationwide educational initiative. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has sponsored the week since 1922, selecting annual themes and providing resources. Today, fire departments, schools, and community organizations host open houses, fire drills, and safety demonstrations. The week emphasizes smoke alarm maintenance, home escape planning, and cooking fire safety. Modern campaigns also address wildfire prevention and fire safety for vulnerable populations.

Facts & General Observations

• The Great Chicago Fire killed approximately 300 people and destroyed over 17,000 structures, leaving nearly 100,000 residents homeless.
• In 2021, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1.4 million fires, resulting in 3,600 civilian deaths and $15.9 billion in property loss.
• Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries, with unattended cooking being the primary factor in most incidents.

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