National Fire Prevention Month is observed every October and aims to educate families about fire safety and prevention. Sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association, this month-long observance encourages individuals to develop fire escape plans and practice them with household members. It highlights the importance of installing smoke alarms, testing them monthly, and ensuring everyone knows how to respond when they sound. The initiative also serves to raise awareness about the dangers of home fires, which claim an average of seven lives daily in the U.S. Activities during this month include inspecting heat sources, maintaining electrical cords, and updating smoke alarms. The observance is rooted in the historical context of the Great Chicago Fire, which led to significant improvements in fire prevention policies.