The Provincial Government is acknowledging Fire Prevention Week that runs from October 4-10. This year’s theme is “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” During this week, residents, families, educators, and fire departments are encouraged to learn more about the simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves, and those around them, safe in the kitchen.

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.

Here are some safety tips to prevent a cooking fire:

• Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling or broiling food. If you have to leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove.
• If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly. Remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking.
• You have to be alert when cooking. You won’t be alert if you are sleepy, have taken medicine or drugs, or have consumed alcohol that makes you drowsy.
• Always keep an oven mitt and pan lid nearby when you’re cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan to smother the flame. Turn off the burner, and leave the pan covered until it is completely cool.
• Have a “kid-free zone” of at least one metre around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

More information on fire safety can be found online at www.gov.nl.ca/fes/fireprotection/firesafety.html.

Quotes
“We all have a role to play in fire safety. During Fire Prevention Week, I encourage all residents of Newfoundland and Labrador to educate themselves on the steps they can take to protect themselves and their families. Fires caused by cooking and heating can be devastating, but ensuring smoke alarms are working and home fire escape plans are in place could mean the difference between life and death. I want to thank firefighters for risking their lives every day to keep us safe. You too can do your part by following these fire safety tips, and not being careless in the kitchen.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

“Cooking is one of the leading causes of home structure fires causing far more than appliances, fireplaces, smoking or furnace fires. Almost half of home fires are the result of cooking. These result in 16 per cent of home fire deaths and 40 per cent of injuries. One in every 22 households per year have a cooking fire. Our intention is to keep your families safe by paying attention to fire prevention. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
Joe Power
President, Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services

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Fire Prevention Week

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Media contacts
Lesley Clarke
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-6985, 699-2910
lesleyclarke@gov.nl.ca

Mandy Young
NL Association of Fire Services
709-424-6500
office@nlfireservices.com