St. Albans, WV — Mayor Scott James has issued a proclamation designating the week of January 20-26, 2025, as Community Risk Reduction Week in the City of St. Albans. This recognition aligns with a national initiative led by fire service professionals to raise awareness about the importance of reducing risks and preventing emergencies within communities.
The proclamation underscores the critical role of Community Risk Reduction (CRR), a process that uses data to identify and prioritize local risks. It also emphasizes the importance of addressing these risks through strategic investments in resources, public education, and local, state, and national partnerships.
Key points in the proclamation include:
- Every 23 seconds, a fire department in the United States responds to a fire, highlighting the ongoing demand for fire services.
- Over 80% of calls to fire departments involve medical emergencies, demonstrating the growing need for comprehensive community safety efforts.
- The five E’s of Community Risk Reduction—Education, Engineering, Enforcement, Emergency Response, and Economic Incentive—serve as the foundation for programs to reduce the occurrence and impact of emergencies.
The proclamation also draws attention to the significance of Monday, January 20, 2025, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a National Day of Service, as an opportunity for the community to engage in educational programs and activities that promote safety and preparedness.
Mayor James stated that Community Risk Reduction Week provides a significant opportunity for residents and organizations in St. Albans to take proactive steps toward creating a safer community. By focusing on prevention and collaboration, the initiative aims to reduce the risks residents and emergency responders face.
This grassroots effort, spearheaded by the St. Albans Fire Department, encourages the community to work together to address local risks and enhance public safety. The City of St. Albans joins fire departments nationwide in recognizing the value of CRR programs and their potential to save lives and property.
Download the Full Proclamation Here
For more information about Community Risk Reduction Week and how to get involved, visit the City of St. Albans website at stalbanswv.com.
Mayor Scott James signed the proclamation on January 6, 2025.
