News Release Archive
LABOUR-FIRE PREVENTION WEEK
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Nova Scotians should get ready to sound off for fire safety
during Fire Prevention Week from Oct. 8 to 14. Labour Minister
Guy Brown and Fire Marshal Bob Cormier today issued a challenge
to all Nova Scotians to test their smoke detectors in recognition
of Fire Prevention Week.
"This week is a time for people to remember the importance of
thinking about fire prevention all year long," said Mr. Brown.
"Checking your smoke detectors is just one example of the many
things we can do to guard against fire loss."
Mr. Cormier said a working smoke detector is still the number one
life saver in situations where a fire has started.
This year's theme for Fire Prevention Week is Watch What You Heat
-- Prevent Home Fires. "The 1995 theme allows fire departments
and the public to concentrate on problems relating to home fire
hazards," said Frank Albert, president of Fire Prevention Canada.
He said "a complete fire protection program includes smoke alarms
and sprinklers."
The latest fire statistics show that residential fires account
for the largest percentage of fires in Canada each year.
Each year across Canada, there are approximately 66,000 fires
(one every 11 minutes), totalling $1.24 billion in direct
property damage. In Nova Scotia last year, there were over 2,000
fires. Major fires continue to involve heating equipment and
cooking appliances. Last year there were 795 such fires.
The minister said that the most devastating result of fires is
personal suffering and loss. Across the country, approximately
400 people die in fires each year. In Nova Scotia last year the
number was 14.
The good news, said the fire marshal, is that the provincial
trend is improving. "Fire deaths are down by 11 from last year,
and fires due to cooking and heating devices are down by 125."
He cited the Learn Not to Burn children's education program,
increased partnerships with consumers and suppliers and the
strength and commitment of the fire service as reasons for the
improvement.
The minister also acknowledged the great contributions made by
all fire departments, including volunteer departments and ladie's
auxiliaries. "Their contributions benefit people and communities
across the province. They provide a vital service to Nova
Scotians. They save lives, reduce costs, and provide leadership
in education and prevention. They have the courage and foresight
to be part of the solution."
The minister encouraged all Nova Scotians to become part of the
solution. "The first step might be checking your smoke detectors
this week. The next steps are supporting your local fire
department, educating yourself and your family, and thinking and
acting for fire prevention. Together we can make Nova Scotia the
most fire safe province in Canada."
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Contact: Bob Cormier 902-424-5721
Jennifer MacIsaac 902-424-4680 or 902-424-3219
NOTE TO EDITORS: For a copy of Q&As, fire facts and other
background information.
Contact: 902-424-4492 or 902-424-5200
trp Oct. 6, 1995
