OTTAWA, ONTARIO (October 5, 2006)—Today on Parliament Hill, the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Labour and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, and Frank Albert, past President of Fire Prevention Canada, participated in the launch of Fire Prevention Week. Children's entertainer, Mary Lambert performed her "Sing Out Fire Safety" concert for over 250 elementary school children, and fire department officials and government officials also attended.
This year, Fire Prevention Week runs from October 8th to 14th. The theme is "Prevent Cooking Fires: Watch what you heat!TM." Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home cooking fires in Canada. Throughout the week, fire departments across the nation will promote public awareness of the dangers of fire and the ways we can protect ourselves.
"All cooking fires are preventable," said Minister Blackburn. "Many of these fires are caused by careless or improper use of cooking equipment. I encourage Canadians to cook safely, especially during the fast approaching holiday seasons, and to teach their children to do the same."
Simple measures to prevent cooking fires include never leaving cooking appliances unattended while in use; being cautious when cooking with oil; selecting the proper heat for food being prepared; keeping anything that can catch fire away from stove tops; and keeping stove tops clean and clear at all times.
"Despite the best efforts of our nation's fire departments in trying to prevent fires and save lives, we are still plagued by a disproportionate amount of fire deaths and injuries," said Fire Prevention Canada's past President, Frank Albert. "This year's fire prevention theme; 'Prevent Cooking Fires: Watch what you heat!TM' should hit home with Canadians. It should be a reminder to all, to be vigilant when using heat producing appliances in the home."
The Labour Program of Human Resources and Social Development Canada promotes and encourages compliance with national and international fire protection standards within the federal government and First Nations communities. All levels of government and all Canadians share the responsibility for protecting people from the consequences of fire.
First observed in Canada 87 years ago, Fire Prevention Week reminds Canadians of the need to remain alert and responsive to the dangers of fire.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Pierre FloréaDirector of CommunicationsOffice of Minister Blackburn819-997-7826
Media Relations OfficeHuman Resources and Social Development Canada819-994-5559
