Funding for Learn Not to Burn Program Presented in Corner Brook

The Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services received approximately $100,000 in funding from the Provincial Government recently to continue the Learn Not to Burn fire safety education program which is delivered in schools throughout the province. The funding will also support the association’s other annual operating expenses.

“Our government is pleased to provide the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services with over $100,000 in funding to support its ongoing work, including $60,000 for the Learn Not to Burn Program,” said the Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador. “For many years, the Provincial Government has worked hand-in-hand with the association in addressing the needs of our firefighters and volunteer fire departments. The Learn Not to Burn Program is a shining example of our strong working relationship and this program is having a big impact on school-aged children throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Our government is pleased to once again provide funding to carry this program and the association’s other important work forward.”

The Learn Not to Burn Program has been delivered in grades kindergarten to three for the past 12 years. It teaches school-aged children the importance of fire safety and how to prevent fires at home. The Provincial Government and the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services have been the driving force behind the program since its inception. Other in-kind support is provided by the private sector each year as well.

“We are pleased to receive financial support from the Provincial Government once again this year to support the work of our association and to continue delivering the highly successful Learn Not to Burn Program,” said Vince MacKenzie, President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services. “While firefighters protect our homes and communities by fighting fires when they occur, we would prefer the fires did not happen in the first place. The messaging delivered in the Learn Not to Burn Program has had a big impact on children over the years and taught them many important lessons in regard to fire safety. We are thankful for the support we receive from government to continue ensuring this safety messaging is introduced at an early age. We look forward to continuing this vitally important program for many years to come.”

The Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services represents over 6,000 firefighters, comprising the majority of the fire service throughout the province. The association held its Annual Conference and Trade Show in the City of Corner Brook over the Canada Day weekend.

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2013 07 02                      1:25 p.m.