USFA Prevention Group Holds National Conference

Emmitsburg, MD - The United States Fire Administration (USFA) was honored to once again play host to nearly 140 fire prevention professionals for the 5th National PARADE (Prevention Advocacy Resources and Data Exchange) Conference, May 14-16. Presentations, workshops, and displays addressed a wide range of fire prevention topics including residential sprinklers, global concepts for residential fire safety, marketing strategies, novelty toy-like lighters, and lessons learned.

During this year's PARADE Conference, Glenn A. Gaines, Acting Assistant USFA Fire Administrator, told the fire marshals that he was "100% committed to mitigation and prevention." Acting Assistant Administrator Gaines also shared with the group his support of the International Residential Code (IRC) requirement for fire sprinklers and that he planned to work hard to ensure that homes have working smoke alarms with long-life batteries installed.

As a result, the 2009 PARADE participants crafted and unanimously passed two resolutions: one in support of banning the sale of novelty toy-like lighters and the second one supporting the IRC for fire sprinklers in one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses. To review these two resolutions, please visit the USFA Website at www.usfa.fema.gov/parade/

PARADE was established in 2003 to better assist America's state and major metropolitan fire marshals, and other representatives, in implementing effective fire prevention programs, conducting networking activities, and exchanging materials.

For more information on all U. S. Fire Administration programs and activities, visit the USFA Website at: www.usfa.fema.gov

The United States Fire Administration recommends everyone should have a comprehensive fire protection plan that includes smoke alarms, residential sprinklers, and practicing a home fire escape plan.

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