By President Barack Obama
 Every year, fires in and around homes nationwide
put thousands of Americans in harm's way. From
the loss of a home to the tragic passing of a
loved one, the devastation these disasters leave
in their wake is heartbreaking.
During Fire Prevention Week, we resolve to
protect ourselves, our families, and our
communities from fires, and we honor the
courageous first responders who put their lives
at risk to keep us safe.
All of us can take meaningful steps to reduce
the risk of fire in our homes. I encourage all
Americans to install and maintain smoke alarms,
test smoke alarm batteries regularly, and follow
safe practices in the kitchen and when using
electrical appliances. Families should also
develop and practice a fire escape plan that
includes at least two ways out of every room. To
learn more about these and other simple
precautions against home fires, visit
www.Ready.gov.
This year, wildfires caused profound damage to
communities across our country, and our Nation
mourned the loss of life that followed.
 These events reminded us that wildfires are
often unpredictable, which is why it is
essential for people in areas at risk to
practice proper fire prevention and
preparedness. Those who live in regions prone to
wildfire can take action by clearing flammable
vegetation, preparing an emergency supply kit,
and sharing evacuation routes and a
communications plan with their family in case of
emergency. Individuals who see a wildfire should
report it by calling 911, and if advised,
evacuate immediately.
As we mark Fire Prevention Week by recommitting
to preparedness, we also extend our thoughts and
prayers to all those who have been affected by
fires this year -- including the brave first
responders who fought them.
Summoning courage in crisis and bringing
discipline and professionalism to the job each
and every day, America's firefighters are heroes
in every sense.
This week, we express our deepest gratitude for
their service to our communities and our Nation,
and we pay solemn tribute to the men and women
who gave their lives to protect our own. Their
sacrifice will never be forgotten, and in their
memory, let us rededicate ourselves to
preventing tragedy before it strikes.
Here is my proclamation:
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of
the United States of America, by virtue of the
authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby
proclaim October 7 through October 13, 2012, as
Fire Prevention Week.
On Sunday, October 7, 2012, in accordance with
Public Law 107-51, the flag of the United States
will be flown at half-staff on all Federal
office buildings in honor of the National Fallen
Firefighters Memorial Service.
I call on all Americans to participate in this
observance with appropriate programs and
activities and by renewing their efforts to
prevent fires and their tragic consequences.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand
this fifth day of October, in the year of our
Lord two thousand twelve, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the
two hundred and thirty-seventh.
Editor's Note: Those in this community who
stand ready to run into danger rather than away
epitomize the level of service to which the
President refers. While the nation's flags fly
low tomorrow, let each of us resolve to say
"thank you."
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