Each month,
municipal officials have the opportunity to recognize national observances that will help them share the value of cities and towns with the community. Through each suggested national observance, municipal leadership can localize the observance and form partnerships with the local business community, the media, local non-profit organizations and policy makers.
Fire Prevention Week — The National Fire Protection Association declared October 4 – 10 as National Fire Prevention Week. With the theme "Stay Fire Smart, Don’t Get Burned," Fire Prevention Week 2009 focuses on burn awareness and prevention, as well as keeping homes safe from the leading causes of home fires. Have your fire department host meetings on fire prevention and safety. Conduct tours at your local fire stations. Take time to thank all the firefighters in your hometown. For more information on Fire Prevention Week, visit www.nfpa.org/index.asp.
National Crime Prevention Month — The National Crime Prevention Council encourages everyone to be safe and vigilant. Provide tips to residents on how to protect their families and property. Host informational meetings on crime prevention and distribute crime prevention brochures in water or electric bills. Join the National Crime Prevention Council and its crime prevention dog, McGruff, to take a bite out of crime in your hometown. For more information and resources on National Crime Prevention Month, visit www.ncpc.org.
Public Power Week — The American Public Power Association celebrates Public Power Week during the week of October 4 – 10. This week celebrates the importance of public power for residents, citizens and businesses in hometowns around the nation. South Carolina has 21 municipal electric systems. Highlight your own power system if your city is an electric city. Educate residents on how to conserve power and save the environment. Visit www.appanet.org for a toolkit of resources for this important week.
Make a Difference Day — Observed on October 24, this day is set aside for helping others, volunteering and making a difference in the lives of neighbors, friends and residents. For events that are already planned for Make a Difference Day in your community, visit www.usaweekend.com/diffday/index.html.
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month — This year, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is celebrating 25 years of awareness, education and empowerment. Use this time to raise awareness of breast cancer, encourage early detection and educate men and women on this important issue. For ways to recognize this important month, visit www.nbcam.org.
Let the Municipal Association know if you participate in a Hometown Happening. Call Casey Fields at 803.933.1256 or e-mail cfields@masc.sc.