THE Torres-Palacios administration on Thursday declared this week as CNMI Fire Prevention Week.
The administration likewise designated Sunday, Oct. 3 as National Fallen Firefighters Day, to honor firefighters and emergency services personnel who have sacrificed their lives to save others.
The commemoration coincides with the start of the 2021 Fire Prevention Week.
This year’s theme, “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety,” aims to remind people that it is important to learn the different sounds of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Smoke alarms are said to detect smoke well before humans can, thereby alerting people to danger in the event of fire in which they may have as little as two minutes to escape safely.
These alarms cut the risk of dying in reported home fires in half, and residents should be sure everyone in the home understands the sounds of the alarms and knows how to respond, the administration stated.
The declaration stated that CNMI residents who have planned and practiced a home fire escape plan are more prepared and will therefore be more likely to survive a fire, ensuring that their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms meet the needs of all their family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.
The administration at the same time recognized CNMI firefighters and first responders for their hard work and service as members of the Governor’s Covid-19 Task Force.
Gov. Ralph DLG Torres and Lt. Gov. Arnold I. Palacios pose for a photo with Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services officials and personnel after signing the CNMI Fire Prevention Week and National Fallen Firefighters Day proclamations at the administration building on Capital Hill, Thursday.
