Statement from Minister Goodale on Fire Prevention Week

OTTAWA, Oct. 9, 2016 /CNW/ - The Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, made the following statement today to launch Fire Prevention Week.

"This spring in Fort McMurray we witnessed the devastating impact fires can have on our communities. Nearly 90,000 people evacuated their homes and businesses, fleeing from the massive wildfire nicknamed 'the beast'. Efforts to rebuild and recover from the fire continue to this day. I would like to once again thank firefighters and first responders for their tremendous courage and commitment to public service when faced with dangerous emergencies, both large and small.

Building a safe Canada is a shared responsibility. The dedicated work of Fire Prevention Canada and fire safety leaders ensures Canadians are aware of fire safety practices to help prevent damage before it happens. This year's Fire Prevention Week theme is "Don't Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years."

All Canadians have an important role to play in keeping their communities and families safe. Ensuring smoke alarms work correctly and are replaced every five to 10 years are simple steps you can take to help reduce the destructive impact of fires. Fire safety practices could mean the difference between life and death.

For more home fire and smoke alarm tips, and to learn how to prepare for all types of emergencies, visit www.GetPrepared.gc.ca or follow @Get_Prepared on Twitter.

Follow Public Safety Canada (@Safety_Canada) on Twitter.

For more information, please visit the website www.publicsafety.gc.ca.

SOURCE Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada

Scott Bardsley, Office of the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, 613-998-5681; Media Relations, Public Safety Canada, [phone]