Two recent incidents in Tampa—a house fire and a semi-truck fire—are stark reminders of why preparation matters. While the house fire resulted in heroic efforts to save pets, it’s a sobering example of how critical it is to have functioning smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. This tragic event underscores the need for proactive safety measures to protect both lives and property. The truck fire highlights the importance of having safety tools on hand in vehicles, especially for long-haul drivers and frequent travelers. Both cases reinforce the need for readiness and education, emphasizing that fire safety is a responsibility we all share.