Fire Prevention Week is the longest running public health observance in the United States. The NFPA has sponsored FPW since 1922 with President Calvin Coolidge proclaiming it a National Observance in 1952. It was started in commemoration of the infamous Chicago fire in 1871 wherein Mrs. O'Leary's cow kicked over a lantern and started a fire that burned 17,000 structures and did almost $200 million in damages. Fire Prevention Week was started to teach adults and children safe fire prevention techniques in order to prevent future fires.

Canton Fire participates in Fire Prevention Week every year with great success. Pre-kindergarten and Kindergarten classes visited the fire station and learned about fire trucks, ambulances, firefighting tools and gear. Grades 1-3 received a school visit from Fire Prevention Officer David Zuhlsdorf and others to show them vital fire safety tips and learn about firefighting gear. Students were able to submit a fire safety essay and win a ride to school in a fire truck. FPO Zuhlsdorf and Principal Schmid-Doyle brought them to school in style on Friday.

On Friday, the last day of Fire Prevention Week members and FPO Zuhlsdorf emptied the fire station and brought numerous trucks to the school for a demonstration of the different apparatus. Students were able to see the Tower truck in action along with the Rescue and an Engine.