The Honourable John Ottenheimer, Acting Municipal Affairs Minister and minister responsible for Fire and Emergency Services, today announced that October 8-14 is Fire Prevention Week.

"This year�s theme Prevent Cooking Fires Watch What You Heat contains an important message that can prevent a tragedy that we see all too often throughout Newfoundland and Labrador," said Minister Ottenheimer. "Although in recent years we have seen a significant reduction in the number of fat fires in the province, cooking-related fires are still one of the single greatest causes of home fires and they are preventable. I remind people to always select the proper heat for the food being prepared and to keep stove tops clean at all times."

During this week, fire departments across Newfoundland and Labrador and throughout Canada will promote public awareness of the dangers of fire, the proper ways to prevent a fire from occurring, and protection when a fire occurs. Further information can be found on the Fire and Emergency Services web site at //www.gov.nl.ca/mpa/fes/ and the Fire Prevention Canada web site at //www.fiprecan.ca/.

"Because fire can grow and spread so quickly, you may have as few as two minutes to escape safely," said Minister Ottenheimer. "When every second can mean the difference between life and death, advance planning is crucial. Remember, a complete fire protection program should include as a minimum, smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and a regularly practiced fire escape plan."

Media contact:
John Tompkins
Director of Communications
709-729-1983, 690-2498
jtompkins@gov.nl.ca