NFPA codes, standards and training help reduce fire risk across the U.S.

In early September, California passed its previous record for the most amount of land damaged by fires with total land burned of more than 3 million acres. Fires continue to rage in the state and many parts of the western U.S. According to the Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP), “Large fire potential is expected to increase in October and November in wind prone areas across California. Expected drier than average conditions and a higher probability of more frequent wind events suggests that significant large fire potential will be elevated until winter sets in during December.”

Since 1896, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has been working with individuals, businesses and communities to “eliminate death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards.” Much of this work is driven by the organization’s more than 300 consensus codes and standards designed to minimize the risks and effects of fires. Approximately 9,000 of its 50,000 members voluntarily serve on NFPA’s 250-plus technical committees to establish these regulations and guidelines. NFPA provides free online access to this information. Information also can be purchased via its catalog.

Another key element of NFPA’s work is public education. Sparky the Fire Dog^®, the association’s official mascot, sponsors Fire Prevention Week in early October, and the Learn Not to Burn^® program teaches fire safety to U.S. children in preschool through second grade. And, because those over 65 are twice as likely to be killed or injured by fires, NFPA created the Remembering When™ fire and fall prevention program for older adults.