Nebo First Graders Learn about Fire Prevention

Fire Prevention Week was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire. The blaze killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 people homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures and burned more than 2,000 acres. The fire began on October 8, 1871, but did most of its damage on October 9th.

But how did this great blaze start? Popular legend blames a cow. There are several versions of the story, but basically a cow kicks over a lamp, sets the barn on fire, which then spreads to the entire city of Chicago. Other speculations: a couple of neighborhood boys set the barn on fire after smoking cigarettes or a neighbor set the fire. There's even a suggestion that a fiery meteorit may have fallen to the eart, starting several fires in Chicago, as well as in Michigan and Wisconsin. The cause really is a MOOt point. Fact is, the fire changed the way firefighters and public officials think about fire safety.In 1920, President Woodrow Wilson issued the first National Fire Prevention Day proclamation, and since 1922, Fire Prevention Week has been observed during the week October 9th falls.

Nebo Elementary's first graders got their lesson in fire safety, thanks to the Paulding County Fire Department. Firefighters showed students the protective gear they wear when fighting fires. And students got a chance to see inside a fire engine.

Thanks to the Paulding County Fire Department for their participation!