Delaware Coalition for Injury Prevention
Burn Injury Prevention Team
Team Leaders:
Susan K. Givens, Richard R. Ward, John F. Lattomus
Member Agencies:
Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office, Delaware State Fire School, Delaware State Fire Prevention Commission
Key Objective:
To reduce the number of fire related injuries and deaths in Delaware.
Key 2007 Project Names:
- Pass the Reduced Ignition Propensity Cigarette Law (R.I.P.C.) Bill.
- Increase the number of schools participating in the Fire Education Arson Resistance (FEAR) Program in Delaware.
- Increase the public’s awareness and proper use of smoke alarms.
Brief Project Description:
On January 1, 2009 the State law mandating Reduced Ignition Propensity Cigarette (RIPC) became effective. This is aimed at decreasing the number of cigarette-caused fires in Delaware. Six smoking-related deaths occurred in Delaware in the year 2007.Educational programs about the importance of early detection and warning of fire were offered through numerous public displays and presentations. In addition, the FEAR Program, which teaches the importance of early education concerning laws and consequences of being involved in fire-setting behavior was implemented.
Project Outcome:
The FEAR Program was placed in six schools in 2008 with plans to include eight additional schools in 2009. The RIPC will be closely monitored and enforced in the year 2009, in an attempt to reduce smoking-related fires. Educational outreach continues.
Cumulative data from the State Fire Marshal’s Office shows the need for continued public education on the importance of smoke detectors in preventing fire-related deaths and the age groups most often involved in fatal fires.
