Contact Information
Meg Matthews
Public Relations Manager
(501) 371-4421
mmatthews@littlerock.gov

FIRE PREVENTION EFFORTS LEAD TO REDUCTION
IN FIRE DEATHS IN LITTLE ROCK

(Little Rock- January 10, 2012)

According to statistics released by the United States Fire Administration, 2,555 civilians lost their lives in 2010 as a result of fire. As grim as these numbers seem, the number of fire deaths in Little Rock is trending downward. From 2006-2008, Little Rock had 16 fire fatalities, and from 2009-2011 that number reduced to 11. This is a 31 % decrease overall and a 40 % decrease from 2010 (5 fatalities) to 2011 (2 fatalities).

These reductions in fatalities can be largely attributed to public education. The fire prevention efforts of highly trained firefighters on duty every day and the increased efforts of the Fire Prevention and Community Outreach Division are all critical factors in ensuring that an emphasis is placed on the first line of defense against fire and other emergencies – prevention.

“We have fire extinguisher training that is offered to local businesses, and tours conducted at fire stations also serve as a great opportunity for elementary school children to learn not only about how firefighters live and work, but also to emphasize fire safety in the home,” said LRFD Chief Gregory Summers. “There is also the Save-A-Life smoke alarm program whereby we distribute, install and inspect smoke alarms free of charge for Little Rock residents.”

Newer initiatives include:
• The Home Safety Survey, where citizens can request the LRFD to inspect their homes and offer fire safety advice
• The Citizens Fire Academy, that provides insight into the core job functions of a firefighter
• The annual Fire Safety Day - are held in conjunction with the national “Fire Prevention Week”

For more information about any of these public education events, please contact Division Chief Joseph Gray at (501) 918-3700.