INFORMATIONAL

  This is to inform you that October 4-10, 1998, has been
  designated as FIRE PREVENTION WEEK in the Commonwealth.
  Governor Gilmore has requested that the citizens of the
  Commonwealth set aside October 7 at 6 p.m. as the time
  for practicing a unified fire drill.

  The State Fire Marshal is also requesting your assistance
  in carrying out the Governor's wishes by doing the
  following:

     1.   Ask students and their families to participate
            in the unified 6 p.m. fire drill at home.
     2.   Take a few minutes to discuss fire safety and
            fire escape planning in each class.
     3.   Send a copy of Governor Gilmore's Certificate
            of Recognition and  Fire Drills: The Great
            Escape" home with each child as soon as
            possible.
     4.     Demonstrate at each school proper fire drill
            procedures by joining in a unified fire drill
            at 10 a.m. on October 7.
     5.   On October 8, count those who participated and
            fax a report to the attention of Phyllis
            Withers at 804-371-7092.
     6.   Please follow up by reporting any success
            stories relating to fire drills to the State
            Fire Marshal's office in the future.

  On October 10, the State Fire Marshal and the Governor 
  are planning to celebrate a successful lifesaving joint
  venture.

  You may obtain assistance in fire escape planning from
  your local fire department or local fire marshal.  You
  may also request information from Phyliss Withers,
  technical instructor, State Fire Marshal's office, 804-371-7153.




  PDS/shs

  Attachments: A hard copy of this memo and its attachment
               will be sent to the superintendent's office.