Today marks the beginning of National Fire Prevention Week. Communities throughout the country will be observing the week with activities and safety sessions this week and Austin is no exception.

Fire trucks will be on display today at Culver's to kick off the festivities. The Austin Fire Department will present a fire safety program for children and their families 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Paramount Theatre.

Wednesday is also the 131st anniversary of the great Chicago fire, which killed more than 250 people and left 100,000 homeless.

This fire inspired the creation of National Fire Prevention Week so that Americans could learn about preventing fires while remembering the tragedy, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

We encourage all residents to consider the steps they can take to prevent fires such as checking smoke detectors, reviewing fire escape plans with their families and checking for things that could start fires in their houses.

A fire can devastate a family and home. Fire Prevention Week gives all residents a chance to learn more about prevention and will hopefully be able to help people avoid any loss or damage.