Ottawa, Ontario, October 6, 2011—Today, the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada’s Labour Minister, joined Fire Prevention Canada for the 15th annual launch of Fire Prevention Week. The Minister took the opportunity to remind Canadians of the dangers of fire.
“The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that all Canadians have up-to-date knowledge of fire safety practices,” said Minister Raitt. “All Canadians share in the responsibility of protecting one another from fire disasters.”
Every year, the Labour Program partners with Fire Prevention Canada and federal, provincial and municipal fire services to educate Canadians on fire safety and prevention to ensure that Canadians have the tools they need to remain safe and healthy in the workplace.
“Our government is proud to partner with Fire Prevention Canada in educating Canadians on fire safety and prevention,” said Minister Raitt. “I would like to remind Canadians to remain vigilant and responsive to the dangers of fire, both at work and at home.”
This year, Fire Prevention Week is being held from October 9 to 15, and the theme is “Protect Your Family From Fire.” As part of today’s launch, children’s entertainer Ms. Mary Lambert performed her award-winning show entitled “Sing Out Fire Safety” to a number ofOttawa school children.
In Canada, the Governor General proclaimed the first national Fire Prevention Day in 1919, and the first Fire Prevention Week in 1923. During Fire Prevention Week, the Government of Canada promotes fire prevention in federal government properties and workplaces and works closely with organizations such as Fire Prevention Canada.
“Educational and awareness programs are working,” said Mr. Rick McCullough, President of Fire Prevention Canada. “But too many lives are still being lost and property damaged, which could be avoided through proper fire prevention measures.”
For more information, please visit www.labour.gc.ca and www.fiprecan.ca.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Ashley Kelahear
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Raitt
819-953-5646
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills DevelopmentCanada
819-994-5559
