SANTA RITA, Guam (Oct. 5, 2020) - U.S. Naval Base Guam (NBG) Commanding Officer Capt. Jeffrey Grimes along with NBG Fire Chief Gifton Lawrence were joined by Fire and Emergency Services personnel during a proclamation signing at NBG Fire Station One in Santa Rita Oct. 2. Grimes proclaimed the week of Oct. 4 to Oct. 10 as Fire Prevention Week with this year's theme, "Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen."

Forty-four percent of reported home fires start in the kitchen, with 66% of home cooking fires starting with the ignition of food or other cooking materials, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Grimes spoke to personnel about the significance of their roles as firefighters and emphasized the importance of a strong community campaign for fire prevention and safety in the home.

NBG Fire and Emergency Services is hosting several Grab N Go events throughout Fire Prevention Week at multiple locations throughout NBG. During the events, personnel will distribute the Grab N Go kits which include information on fire safety in the kitchen, potholders, and various items and treats related to cooking safety.