Board Member Hunter encouraged civic associations to help the County achieve its goal of zero tolerance for fire and fire- related deaths. Also, he mentioned that a letter would be forthcoming for civic associations to include in their respective Newsletters.
In his letter dated January 7, 1997, Board Member Jim Hunter stated that the "Arlington County Board has called upon the civic associations of Arlington to join the County in 1997 in establishing a community goal of zero tolerance for fire and fire-related deaths.
Residents can help in three important ways:
Smoke detectors are one of the most affordable, convenient, and reliable fire prevention devices available for residential homes--if they are properly installed and kept in working condition. (Batteries should be changed every six months, and smoke detectors should be replaced every 10 years.)
If you or someone you know needs assistance in installing smoke detectors, or testing existing detectors, please telephone the Arlington Fire Department at 358-4644. You may also call this number to ask a fire prevention expert to present a program at your civic association or other community group.
Eight Arlington residents perished by fire in 1996, but if all of our residents join the Fire Department in promoting fire prevention and detection awareness, 1997 could be the year all fire deaths are eliminated in Arlington."