For Immediate Release: October 5, 2023

In recognition of National Fire Prevention Week (October 8-14), all Alexandria Fire Stations will be open to the public on Saturday, October 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. During this free event, each station will open its doors to the community, providing family-friendly activities, station and fire apparatus tours and fire prevention information and materials. Personnel at each station will be available to answer questions about their facilities, equipment, and the Fire Department.

This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme is “Cooking Safety Starts with You. Pay Attention to Fire Prevention.” According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of cooking fires and deaths. The Alexandria Fire Department encourages the community to change the batteries in their smoke alarms every six months. Residents are also encouraged to take the necessary steps to help prevent cooking fires and burns.

“The Alexandria Fire Department is excited to open our stations to the community to provide tours, fun activities, and information about fire safety,” said Fire/EMS Chief Corey Smedley. “For the past four years, the City of Alexandria has not had any fire fatalities. In alignment with Fire Prevention Week, we’re encouraging our community to remain diligent and alert when cooking your meals. Never leave food on the stove unattended and have conversations with your family about fire safety in your homes.”

For fire station locations, visit www.alexandriava.gov/Fire. The City of Alexandria is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, as amended. To request a reasonable accommodation, contact Firefighter Ashley Whisonant, Community Outreach Coordinator, at (703) 746-5217 or ashley.whisonant@alexandriava.gov.

For media inquiries only, contact Raytevia Evans, Senior Public Information Officer, at (703) 746-5190 or raytevia.evans@alexandriava.gov.

###

This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/go/5035.