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NEWS | Oct. 2, 2017

Fire Prevention Week: ‘Every Second Counts, Plan 2 Ways Out!’

By Keith Boyd 733rd Civil Engineer Division Fire and Emergency Services

National Fire Prevention Week is traditionally observed by fire departments throughout the U.S. to promote maximum participation in fire and life safety education. This year’s events are scheduled from October 8-14, 2017. 

The 2017 Fire Prevention Week theme is “Every Second Counts, Plan 2 Ways Out!” It aims to educate members on the importance of having an emergency escape plan. The Joint Base Langley-Eustis fire department are committed to preparing members for such scenarios.  During the week, fort Eustis and Langley Air force Base department will also educate members on how to ensure smoked detectors are functional and placed properly.

In support of this year’s theme, emphasis will be on E.D.I.T.H. (Exit Drills in the Home) as well.  In addition to having an exit plan during an emergency, members are advised to ensure all household members discuss the importance of what to do in the event of different emergencies, including going to an established meeting place and staying out the vicinity of the emergency.

Below are some steps members can take to be prepared during an emergency:

  • Draw a floor plan of your home and mark two ways out of the home, if possible.
  • Agree on a designated meeting place after escaping the danger area.
  • Practice your escape plan.
  • Make sure your drills are realistic.
  • Be prepared! Ensure everyone can lock and unlock doors and windows.

The department will host a variety of Fire Prevention Week educational activities throughout the week.

Fort Eustis events:

Oct. 9-13: Door to Door Campaign in Base Housing (weather dependent on length)

Oct. 10-13: Fire Suppression training at restaurants on Fort Eustis  

Oct. 11 and 13, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Blood pressure checks at the Commissary

Oct. 14, 10 a.m. to noon: Open House at Fire Station 1 (Bldg. 648)

Langley AFB events:

Oct. 6, 4-7 p.m.: Fire truck display and live kitchen fire demo at Bethel Housing Welcome Center

Oct. 9-13, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Open house at Fire Station 1 and 2

Oct. 10-12, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Base Exchange static display booth

Oct. 13, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.: Fire Fighter’s Combat Challenge at Fire Station 1


For additional information, contact the Fort Eustis Fire and Emergency Services at 878-4281, ext. 354 or 321 or contact the Langley Air Force Base Fire Department at 764-4222 or 633ces.cef.firepreve@us.af.mil