New Video Helps Families Prepare Fire Escape Plan

Fire safety starts at home and the province wants to help families prepare.

A new video called Don't Wait: Plan Your Escape! is now available on the Fire Marshal's website. It shows families how to plan a safe evacuation from their homes in the event of a fire or other emergency.

"We hope that no family will face a real fire or emergency at home," said Zach Churchill, Minister responsible for the Office of the Fire Marshal. "Having an escape plan and practicing it can save lives."

Provincial staff worked with Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency to record the video.

"I'd like to thank everyone who made this video possible," added Mr. Churchill

During Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 9 to Oct. 15, Mr. Churchill is reminding Nova Scotians to:

• have smoke detectors near all sleeping areas and test them regularly
• change smoke detector batteries every six months and replace units that are over 10-years-old
• use carbon monoxide detectors and check them regularly
• place fire extinguishers in the kitchen, furnace room, and near any fireplaces or wood stoves.

To view or download the video, visit http://novascotia.ca/dma/firesafety/.