According to a report by the Georgia State Fire Marshal’s Office, 2,565 people died in home fires nationwide in 2009.

Because the loss of lives and property are devastating to all involved, the Hinesville Fire Department is committed to doing as much as possible to prevent loss and protect property. After the nation celebrated fire safety week in October, the Hinesville Fire Department continued efforts to increase knowledge and awareness of its current programs.

"The best way to put out fires is to teach fire safety education, to prevent the fire from ever happening," Hinesville Fire Department Chief Lamar Cook said.

For HFD, fire safety is just the tip of the iceberg. While fire-related injuries or deaths are at a minimum in the community, the department’s goal is to continue to educate the public to further reduce the chance of injuries. The Hinesville Fire Department encourages everyone in the community to take advantage of its public safety education programs available throughout the year.

The safety education program is as diverse as any in the nation and offers programs for kids as young as pre-school age as well as adults. With nearly 30 programs, Capt. Andra Hart, department coordinator of public safety education, is looking to go beyond the schools and get the entire community involved.

"Fire safety education takes place all 12 months of the year for us," Hart said. "We want to increase our exposure outside of the schools and get the business community and civic organizations involved as we work to enhance our programs."

All programs are offered to city residents for free.

For a list of programs or more information on scheduling a fire safety program, go to www.cityofhinesville.org/fire or call 876-4143.