LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Oct. 14, 2017) – Rides, Food, Molly the Fire Safety Dog and an antique fire truck are just a few of the highlights for attendees at the 7th annual Fire Safety Day taking place Saturday, Oct. 14, on the grounds of the Clinton Presidential Center.

The Little Rock Fire Department leads the free annual event that educates children and families about fire safety as part of national Fire Prevention Week, this year Oct. 8-14.

Participating organizations include other area fire departments, UAMS, Jr. Fire Cadets, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Juvenile Fire Setters, and the Little Rock Zoo.

Learning stations and demonstrations will offer families tips on fire prevention and tools to ensure safety comes first in the home. There are also carnival rides and much more for the whole family.

Adults can get free health screenings courtesy of UAMS and receive information on childhood obesity provided by Phi Beta Sigma.

This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme is “Every Second Counts! Plan 2 Ways Out.” According to a recent survey by the U.S. Fire Administration and the National Fire Prevention Association, only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced.

“It is critical that residents have working smoke alarms and an escape plan that includes multiple escape routes in case of a fire emergency,” Capt. Warren Robinson said.

Smoke alarms should be tested monthly, and batteries should be replaced once a year or when they begin to chirp, signaling that they’re running low. The Little Rock Fire Department offers smoke alarms to Little Rock residents who need one. Firefighters will conduct a safety check and ensure the alarm is installed properly. Residents can call 918-3700 to request an alarm to be installed.

The National Fire Protection Association estimates that U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 358,300 home structure fires per year during 2010-2014. These fires caused an estimated average of 2,520 civilian deaths, 12,720 civilian injuries, and $6.7 billion in direct property damage per year. Our goal is zero.