FEMA Blog

Posted by: Glenn Gaines, Deputy Administrator, U.S. Fire Administration



As we often say at FEMA, getting neighborhoods prepared and making them a safer place is a team effort, at the federal, state, local, and community level. That’s why I’m proud the U.S. Fire Administration is working with the National Association of Town Watch to encourage fire and emergency medical service (EMS) personnel to partner with law enforcement and participate in the National Night Out.

National Night Out is a program to promote neighborhood spirit and public safety-community partnerships, and over 15,000 communities are expected to host local events across the country.

I wanted to encourage you and your department to participate in National Night Out and host a local community event.

It’s a natural fit.

Fire and EMS are part of the community, and what a great way to reach out to the very people you serve by sharing important fire prevention and life safety information. There are so many things you could do to enhance a local event:

• Fire apparatus and ambulances could serve as a backdrop for your educational booth while your department shares home fire safety checklists,
• You could encourage residents to schedule smoke alarm installations, and answer questions about smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and other fire safety topics,
• EMS personnel could perform free blood pressure screenings,
• You could provide information on CPR training.

For more information on National Night Out or to register, visit www.NationalNightOut.org or contact your local law enforcement agency and learn how your fire department or EMS can get involved. Time is running out, but it’s not too late to become actively involved this year. This is a great way to get important fire safety information into our communities.

And while you're at it, National Preparedness Month (September) is right around the corner, so sign up to be a coalition member today to get resources and tips on spreading the preparedness message in your community.