Fire Prevention Week event in Burlington is Oct. 14 | Local News

The Burlington Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Cooking safety starts with you. Pay attention to fire prevention.” The campaign works to educate everyone about the importance of being vigilant about fire safety while cooking, and the dangers of becoming distracted while cooking.

According to the NFPA, on average hundreds of people die each year as the result of cooking-related residential fires. In addition, thousands are injured as a result of these fires annually.

Capt. David Sharpe with the Burlington Fire Department said cooking fires are a leading cause of injury and death in residential fires.

“And becoming distracted while cooking is one of the primary causes that they occur. It is important to not only stay vigilant and present in the kitchen while cooking but also to have working smoke alarms in proper locations throughout the home. This includes all bedrooms and sleeping areas, areas outside of sleeping areas and every level of the home, including the basement and attic,” he said.

In addition to the upcoming open house, Burlington Fire Department personnel will be visiting elementary schools in the city during October to provide fire safety education.

For more information about the open house or Fire Prevention Week activities, contact Sharpe at 336-516-7359 or [email protected].