OTTAWA, ONTARIO, October 4, 2007— MP Pierre Poilievre, Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the Treasury Board and Member of Parliament for Nepean-Carleton, on behalf of the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Labour and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, participated today in the official launch of Fire Prevention Week, which was held at the Canadian War Museum.
"It is important to consider how each of us can think ahead to stay safe from the risk posed by fire," said Mr. Poilievre. "I strongly encourage Canadians to take the time to discuss this with their family and develop an escape plan. Planning and practicing regularly is absolutely essential. It could save lives."
This year, Fire Prevention Week will be held from October 7 to13, 2007, and the theme is "It's Fire Prevention Week - Practice your Escape Plan". Each year, hundreds of Canadians across this country lose their lives or are seriously injured because they did not take the time to develop and/or practice an up-to-date fire escape plan for their home.
"The benefit of having and practicing an escape plan is choosing life over possible death. Be fire smart and help your local firefighters help you. Developing a plan that you and your family could use in the event of a fire can also help to ensure that firefighters do not risk their lives by entering a burning building to search for and rescue you or your family. By practicing fire safety, you are protecting your life, the lives of your family and your local heroes," said Mr. E. David Hodgins, President, Fire Prevention Canada.
Again this year, children's entertainer, Ms. Mary Lambert, gave a performance in front of elementary school children as well as government and fire department representatives.
The Labour Program has built a long-term partnership with Fire Prevention Canada and continues to support educational activities during Fire Prevention Week across Canada.
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.
For more information, please visit labour.gc.ca and fiprecan.ca .
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Emma Welford
Office of Minister Blackburn
819-997-7826
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
