JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST -- More than 140 years ago, the Great Chicago Fire claimed over 300 lives and displaced over 100,000 people. The annual National Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 9 to 15, remembers the disaster and encourages a proactive stance on firefighting.
“Don’t wait – check the date!” is the slogan for this year’s NFPW. According to the National Fire Protection Association, faulty smoke detectors are responsible for as many as three of five home fires. Smoke detector batteries may start to go bad after 10 years, so a checkup is highly recommended.
NFPW was kicked off with a proclamation signing, and an opportunity for base leaders to experience what it’s like to fight fires.
“It gives you a lot of respect for the firefighters,” said Chief Master Sgt. Craig Poling, 87th Air Base Wing command chief, who got to suit up and experience some firefighter training. “It reminds you there’s a reason for fire prevention week.”
The training was exhausting, and it’s only a fraction of what it would be like to combat a real-world fire, explained Poling. Their fitness levels are a lot like those in special operations.
“Air Force firefighters are very highly trained,” said Robert Lemanski, 87th Civil Engineer Squadron chief of training, and 34 year firefighting veteran. “These guys are among the best in the world.”
But, it’s easier to prevent a fire than to fight one.
“Even if you can reach one person and open their eyes to some aspects of fire prevention, then it’s worth it,” said Poling. “Always keep your smoke detectors up to date.”
For the fires that can’t be prevented, the Joint Base’s fire department is standing by.
“At Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, the Fire Department is one big team,” said Lemanski. “They rely on each other. Every guy in this fire department has a ‘Can Do’ attitude.”