Minister Urges Safety and Emergency Preparedness During Holidays 

The Honourable Jack Byrne, Minister of Municipal Affairs, cautions residents throughout Newfoundland and Labrador to take extra care for a safe and happy holiday season. 

�The holidays are a wonderful opportunity to appreciate friends and family but it is also a time where precautions can go a long way to preventing tragedy,� said Minister Byrne, who is minister responsible for Fire and Emergency Services.  �While it is a time for feasting and celebration, there is increased risk of fire due to seasonal lighting and increased demands on home heating and cooking appliances.  It is also a time of increased travel on our roads and highways in challenging weather.� 

�With just a few simple steps we can all reduce the risk of emergency situations over the holiday season,� said Fred Hollett, director of Fire and Emergency Services.  �Make sure chimneys are inspected before they are used and other heating appliances are in working order and used properly.  Residents are encouraged to be careful with holiday lights and only use indoor or outdoor lights and extension cords in the appropriate locations.  Candles have become an increasingly popular decoration and attractive gift yet a growing number of holiday fires nationwide are caused by the misuse of candles.  Candles should never be left unattended.� 

�While I urge everyone to prepare for the increased risks associated with the holidays, we should always be prepared for emergencies,� said Minister Byrne.  �Remember to place an emergency kit in your home and in your car.  Make a family emergency plan so you and your loved ones are prepared.  Precaution and preparedness will ensure a safe holiday season.� 

Additional holiday safety tips can be found at the Fire Safety link on the Fire and Emergency Services web site at //www.gov.nl.ca/mpa/fes/ofc/ 

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Media contact:
John Tompkins
Director of Communications
Department of Municipal Affairs
709-729-1983, 690-2498 

2006 12 19                                                        9:20 a.m.