In addition to creating a fire evacuation plan, every home in B.C. should have smoke alarms and an extinguisher, and families are encouraged to make a habit of checking the batteries and testing the alarms once a month.

Established in Canada in 1919, Fire Prevention Week is an annual event near the week of Oct. 8, the date of one of the most significant fires in North America, the 1871 Chicago Fire. The main objective is to raise awareness concerning fire safety and to keep the public informed.

Fire safety information, including booklets with fun family resources and a map to create a fire evacuation plan, are available online and through participating fire departments.

Quick Facts

• In 2010, there were 2,092 residential fires reported in B.C., resulting in 33 fatalities.
• Someone is injured by fire every day in British Columbia.
• 79 per cent of fire related injuries in British Columbia are caused by residential fires.
• The majority of fire injuries occur in private dwellings.

Learn More:

• To view the children's activity booklet, Fire Safety and You, and home escape plan, visit: http://www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/firecom/pubed/pdf/fpw1101eng.pdf
• For more information on fire safety tips, visit: http://www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/firecom/pubed/fpw.htm
• Follow Emergency Info BC for fire prevention and safety information during Fire Prevention Week at: http://twitter.com/EmergencyInfoBC

Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General
250 356 6961