Rep. Proos offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 443.

A resolution proclaiming October 5-11, 2008, as Fire Prevention Week in the state of Michigan.

Whereas, The state of Michigan is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all those living in and visiting our state; and

Whereas, Fire is a serious public safety concern both locally and nationally, and people are at the greatest risk in their homes; and

Whereas, Home fires killed more than 2,500 people in the United States in 2006, according to the latest research from the nonprofit National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and fire departments in the United States responded to nearly 400,000 home fires; and

Whereas, Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries, while heating equipment and smoking are the leading causes of home fire deaths; and

Whereas, Michigan’s first responders are dedicated to reducing the occurrence of home fires and home fire injuries through prevention and protection education; and

Whereas, Michigan’s residents are responsive to public education measures and are able to take personal steps to increase their safety from fire, especially in their homes; and

Whereas, Residents who have planned and practiced a home fire escape plan are more prepared and will therefore be more likely to survive a fire; and

Whereas, The 2008 Fire Prevention Week theme, “It’s Fire Prevention Week – Prevent Home Fires!” effectively serves to remind us all of the simple actions we can take to stay safer from fire during Fire Prevention Week and year-round; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body proclaim October 5-11, 2008, as Fire Prevention Week in the state of Michigan. We urge all the people of Michigan to protect their homes and families by heeding the important safety messages of Fire Prevention Week 2008, and to support the many public safety activities and efforts of Michigan’s fire and emergency services.