Last year in Minnesota, 52 people lost their lives in fires. Another 144 were injured seriously enough to require transport or treatment by fire department responders — and we don’t even know how many suffered less threatening injuries caused by preventable fires or accidents. We do know that most fire deaths and burn injuries take place at home. That clearly means we need to do a better job of educating ourselves and our children about fire safety and burn prevention.

So here’s something positive to do. If your local fire department has an open house this month, round up the family and go. You’ll learn about what your firefighters do, see the trucks up close and pick up fire safety tips. Some departments give away smoke detectors. Others have mini-lessons in CPR or other skills.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Fire Marshal Division and fire departments across Minnesota are dedicated to keeping our people and their homes safe from devastating fires. Please join them in their effort, and make Minnesota a safer place to live.

Jerry Rosendahl

Minnesota State Fire Marshal