Fire Prevention Week 2021 – Smoke detectors save lives
October 1, 2021
Many people don’t test the smoke alarms in their homes as often as they should.
When a fire happens, smoke spreads quickly – a working smoke alarm gives you time to get out. You should be testing your smoke alarms once a month and replacing them every 10 years. Nobody likes to hear the piercing sound of the alarm, but that sound saves lives.
This year, taking place from Oct. 3 to 9, the theme for Fire Prevention Week is “Learn the Sound of Fire Safety.” Since 1922, Fire Prevention Week commemorates the Great Chicago Fire of October 1871. The tragic blaze lasted two days – Oct. 8 and 9 – burning more than 809 hectares, killing more than 250 people and leaving 100,000 homeless.
“This year’s theme is a great way for our Fire Department to reinforce the importance of home safety and fire prevention,” said Garrison Fire Chief, Lieutenant Gordon Tessier.
Fire Prevention Week provides a wonderful opportunity for fire departments across North America to promote fire safety and prevention programs and educate the public how to react correctly in the event of a fire.
Smoke alarms may be the focus this year, but there are many other fire safety practices that can keep you safe. Check to make sure your fire extinguishers are operational and the people in your home know how to use them. Matches, lighters, candles and combustible materials should be kept safely away from children. Taking steps like these can help you save lives – fire prevention fact sheets are available through Fire Prevention Canada.
Throughout the week, Garrison Fire Services will be holding activities on base in Edmonton to heighten public awareness and educate people on fire safety. As in the past, Garrison Fire Services will be conducting fire evacuation drills throughout the base. Firefighters will also be visiting Guthrie schools and colouring and poster contests will be held – prizes will be awarded to the winners in each grade.
For more information contact Dan Drouin at 780-973-4011 ext. 2220 at the Garrison Edmonton Fire Service Inspections Office.
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