In Maryland, we are very proud of the training program which is
conducted by the Fire Service Extension Service of the University of
Maryland. This training course, to which firemen come each year to
develop their talents, improve their skills and increase their knowledge
of the art of fire fighting, is a fine example of Maryland's continuing
concern for the protection of the lives and the property of its citizens.

Another example of our concern is the Governor's Conference on
Fire Prevention, which is held each year. Experts from all parts of the
country come to this conference to discuss all aspects of safety and
prevention. Its primary purpose, however, is to focus public attention
upon the danger of fire and to alert each citizen to the steps that are
necessary if we are to continue reducing fire losses.

"The proof of the pudding, " it is said, "is in the eating, " and the
proof of the value of our program is to be found in the excellent prog-
ress we are making to control fire losses. During the past several years,
we have observed significant reductions in the rates of fire insurance,
indicating that insurance companies which stand bark of fire risks have
confidence in the effectiveness of our program. This accomplishment
can be attributed in large measure to the efforts which have been made
by men in the volunteer companies. Credit for our achievements must
go to men like yourselves who have devoted so much of your time,
your talents and your intelligence to safeguarding the lives and prop-
erty of your friends and neighbors.

One of our principal tasks is to convince all citizens that fire is,
indeed, a menace to themselves and to their families. Too many of
our citizens still labor under the false belief that fire, like traffic acci-
dents, always happens to the other fellow. I wish it were possible for
everyone to have the opportunity to watch you as you go about your
tasks of fighting fires. They would all come away, I am sure, with a
much better idea about the grave danger of fires.

And now, let me say once again that it is indeed a delight to be with
you at this banquet. And let me express the hope that all of us will
leave this convention with renewed determination to do all within
our power to give the people of our communities greater protection
against the hazards of fires.

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