Alarmed and Ready NL Challenge Encourages
Residents to Install Smoke Detectors

Phase Two of the Alarmed and Ready NL Challenge was launched today by the Provincial Government, the Insurance Bureau of Canada, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services. The fire safety public education campaign was first introduced in 2012 and has encouraged residents in over 50 communities throughout the province to install smoke alarms in their homes or change the batteries in existing units.

“I am pleased to acknowledge that the Alarmed and Ready NL Challenge will continue for another year thanks to a second $15,000 contribution from Insurance Bureau of Canada,” said the Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador. “This important campaign has had tremendous success since its inception, reaching approximately 45 fire departments and 50 communities throughout the province. We anticipate the same success for phase two. More homes have working smoke alarms because of this initiative which could save someone’s life.”

The Alarmed and Ready NL Challenge educates residents of the legal responsibility to have a working smoke alarm on all levels and in all sleeping areas of a home, cottage or cabin. Other fire prevention messages are also delivered when firefighters visit homes. Over 2,000 smoke alarms and 125 boxes of nine volt batteries were distributed during the first phase of the initiative.

“Smoke alarms save lives – it’s a simple fact and that’s the core message we want to get out to residents,” said Amanda Dean, Regional Vice-President, Insurance Bureau of Canada. “Insurance Bureau of Canada is proud to be part of this campaign. It’s sparking important conversations about fire safety at the community level and it’s working. We’re seeing people install new alarms, replace dead batteries and begin regular alarm testing. We are very pleased by the enthusiasm and support to date from everyone involved. It’s that combination of enthusiasm, commitment to the campaign and results that make today’s $15,000 sponsorship a clear decision.”

Fire departments throughout Newfoundland and Labrador have had great success with this campaign and are encouraged by the renewed commitment of all partners.

“Firefighters across the province gratefully acknowledge and thank Insurance Bureau of Canada and the Provincial Government for implementing this valuable campaign” said Vince MacKenzie, President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services. “Home fires today are hotter and spread faster than ever, so working smoke alarms in every household is the first line of defence in ensuring the safety of our families from fire.”

Phase two of the Alarmed and Ready NL Challenge will commence in approximately one month once smoke alarms and batteries are delivered to fire departments. More information about the program can be found at www.gov.nl.ca/fes/alarmed_and_ready.html.

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2013 09 10                            1:55 p.m.