POULSBO — Local firefighters will participate in a host of events during Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 7-13, and throughout the month to urge residents to “Have Two Ways Out!”

This year’s theme focuses on the importance of fire escape planning and practice (go to www.firepreventionweek.org for more information).

In 2010, U.S. fire departments responded to 369,500 home structure fires. These fires caused 13,350 civilian injuries, 2,640 civilian deaths, and $6.9 billion in direct damage.

“Fire is unpredictable and moves faster than most people realize,” said Jody Matson, Poulsbo Fire Department  spokeswoman and chairwoman of the Kitsap County Fire Chiefs Association’s Prevention Division.

“Having a tried and true escape plan with two ways is essential to ensuring your family’s safety should fire break out in your home.”

North Kitsap Fire & Rescue and Poulsbo Fire Department will present their annual fire escape planning contest in local schools. One classroom from each school will win an ice cream party with firefighters.

Firefighters from both departments will also participate in the Northwest Burn Foundation’s annual Give Burns the Boot drive. Funds raised help support the foundation’s services for burn victims and burn-prevention education work.

Look for Poulsbo firefighters at Poulsbo Red Apple and Central Market on Oct. 6, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Look for North Kitsap firefighters at Kingston Albertsons that day, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.