The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Justice and Public Safety:

Mr. Speaker, October 4 to 10 is Fire Prevention Week 2020. This year’s theme is “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” which encourages people 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.

Mr. Speaker, we all have a role to play in fire safety. During Fire Prevention Week, I encourage all residents of Newfoundland and Labrador to take steps to protect themselves and their families. Never leave cooking food unattended, check your food regularly, always have a fire extinguisher nearby and create a kid-free zone around the cooking area. Don’t be careless in the kitchen. Check your kitchen for fire hazards and use safe cooking practices.

Fires caused by cooking and heating can be devastating, but taking the measures I have just mentioned as well as ensuring smoke alarms are working and home fire escape plans are in place could mean the difference between life and death.

Mr. Speaker, I also want to take this opportunity thank firefighters throughout Newfoundland and Labrador for risking their lives every day to keep us safe.

Thank you.