The Honourable John Hogan, KC, Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General, has proclaimed October 8 to 14, 2023 as Fire Prevention Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.

This year’s theme, “Cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire prevention,” aims to educate the public about important actions for safe cooking. Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in Canada. The majority of reported home fires start in the kitchen, most with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.

Tips for safe cooking at home:

• Look while you cook: Unattended cooking is a leading cause of fire. Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food. Always watch what you heat.
• Keep your kitchen clean: Keep your cooking surfaces clean to prevent food and grease build-ups that could be easily ignited. Clean up spills on the stove and in the oven.
• Wear short or close-fitting sleeves: Loose clothing can brush against heating elements and catch on fire. Loose sleeves should be rolled up tight before cooking.
• Put a lid on grease fire: Never put water onto a grease fire. Put a lid on the pot or over the pan, turn off the stove, and call 911. Don’t try to move the pot outside.
• Cook responsibly: To prevent cooking fires, you must be alert. You are not alert if you have consumed alcohol or drugs.
• Have a “kid-free zone”: Keep young kids one metre away from the stove. Turn pot handles away from the stove’s edge so pots can’t easily be knocked off.

The Provincial Government encourages residents, families, and educators to learn more about the important fire prevention actions that can help keep them safe. Last year, there were approximately 650 reported fire-related incidents in the province, with seven fire-related deaths.

Quotes
“As we recognize Fire Prevention Week, I thank the brave emergency responders for their dedication and sacrifice to help keep our communities safe. Fire safety is a priority, and I encourage families to use this week as a reminder to always use safe cooking practices and check your kitchens for fire hazards.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Minister of Justice and Public Safety and Attorney General

“The most important task we perform as firefighters is the act of fire prevention. Our association believes that all fires can be prevented and education is the key to realizing that goal. Please join us during fire prevention week as we work together to keep our communities, our families and our friends safer by learning how we can all do our part to prevent fire.”
Duane Antle
President, Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services

-30-

Learn more
Fire Prevention Week

Follow us on Twitter @GovNL and @JPS_GovNL

Like us on Facebook