Municipal Affairs
August 29, 2016

Investing in Fire Safety

Funding Supports Learn Not to Burn Program

The Honourable Eddie Joyce, Minister of Municipal Affairs, announced funding for the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services at its annual conference and trade show in Corner Brook this past weekend. Over $100,000 was announced for the continuation of the Learn Not to Burn Fire Safety Education Program and to support the annual operation of the association.

"Our government places great importance on the work done by the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services on behalf of the approximately 275 fire departments throughout the province. We are pleased this year to provide $60,000 for the continuation of the Learn Not to Burn program, and $41,000 to support the day-to-day operation of the fire services association. This funding is a direct investment in the safety of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and the success of municipal fire and emergency services province-wide."
- The Honourable Eddie Joyce, Minister of Municipal Affairs

The Learn Not to Burn program was developed by the National Fire Protection Association and is an initiative of the Canadian Council of Fire Marshals and Fire Commissioners. The program teaches children in Kindergarten through Grade 3 how to prevent fires and to escape a fire safely. The program has been delivered throughout Newfoundland and Labrador for the last 16 years. Last year, more than 70 schools and almost 12,000 students received information on how to recognize the sound of a smoke alarm, what to do when they hear it, and the importance of a home fire escape plan.

"The Learn Not to Burn program is one of the most important and effective fire safety education programs administered by our association. We are extremely proud to see its continuation, made possible in part by the financial support of the Provincial Government. On behalf of our staff and board of directors, and our entire membership, I thank the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and our other sponsors who have made the commitment, year-after-year, to see this valuable program continue for young students throughout the province."
- Duane Antle, President, Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services

The Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services is a member-based organization of fire departments throughout the province. Its focus includes advocacy and education. For more information, see: www.nlfireservices.com .

QUICK FACTS

• The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador announced funding for the Learn Not to Burn Fire Safety Education Program and the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services this past weekend at the association's annual conference in Corner Brook.
• The Learn Not to Burn program received $60,000, and the association received a $41,000 operating grant.
• The Learn Not to Burn program teaches children in Kindergarten through Grade 3 how to prevent fires and escape a fire safely.
• The program has been delivered in schools throughout Newfoundland and Labrador for the last 16 years.

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2016 08 29                              10:10 a.m.