Educational Programs

The Hood County fire marshal conducts inspections and works with Hood County Development and Compliance to increase public safety. Each October, the office and local fire departments put on an education program for Fire Prevention week. This program is brought to local schools to raise awareness and educate students.

In addition, our office works with the local fire departments to provide free smoke detectors to citizens of Hood County. We can work with your business to schedule training on the use of fire extinguishers. Please contact our office at (817) 579-3335 for details.

Fire Safety Facts

Each year, more than 4,000 Americans die in fires, more than 25,000 are injured in fires, and more than 100 firefighters are killed while on duty. Eighty-three percent of all civilian fire deaths occur in residences. Cooking is the third leading cause of fire deaths and the leading cause of injury among people ages 65 and older.

Direct losses due to fires are estimated at nearly $8.6 billion annually. Intentionally set structure fires result in an estimated $664 million in property damage. Many fires can be avoided. In order to protect yourself, it is important to understand the basic characteristics of fire.

• Fire is dark. It produces gases that make you disoriented and drowsy. Instead of being awakened by a fire, you may fall into a deeper sleep. Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by a 3-1 ratio.
• Fire is fast. In just two minutes, a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames.
• Fire is hot. Heat and smoke from fire can be more dangerous than the flames. Inhaling the super-hot air can sear your lungs.

Resources

Here are websites with useful information on fire protection: