Today marks the start of Fire Prevention Week and those leading the charge are under the age of 12. We should follow their lead and tips on how to be prepared in case of a fire.

Strathmillan School was chosen to host the kick-off assembly with a minister, deputy chief, Sparky the fire dog and other special guests. they covered a wide range of fire safety tips. 

"We continue to see careless unattended buildings. We need your help, recent links have shown the difference that young people can make in this world. It's time for us to get to work." Hon. Blaine Pedersen Midland Minister of Growth, Enterprise, and Trade. 

"The majority of our fires are preventable so there's no excuse for those numbers to be as high as they are."

Strathmillan school is an example to many when it comes to fire safety. They are the recent stars of the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service's fire safety commercial. They are able to evacuate the whole school in two minutes. The video was debuted to the kids and a joyful buzz filled the room. The proud children chanted over and over the motto of the day. "Not every hero wears a cape, plan and practice your escape."

"We run this event [Fire prevention week] every year and we've had specific incidents where we've been able to reduce property loss, save lives, and preserve the environment because of the messages kids have shared with grownups. We respond to over 1,500 calls of fire every year and that's 1,500 too many. So, if we are not working to put ourselves out of a job, then we are not doing our job," Tom Wallace, Deputy Chief Support Services says.

"The majority of our fires are preventable so there's no excuse for those numbers to be as high as they are," Wallace says.

The Fire Paramedic Service has a firehouse available to book by community groups, schools, and the general public. It is a hands-on way to educate and prepare everyone for a house fire. The most important notes highlighted for this year's Fire Prevention Week were the tips on what families should do to prepare with their children in case of a fire emergency. 

How to make a home escape plan:

  • Draw a map of your home showing all windows and doors
  • Remember to discuss the plan with everyone in your home
  • Know at least two ways out of every room if possible 
  • Ensure all doors and windows leading outside open easily 
  • Practice the plan at least twice a year with different ways out 
  • Check your smoke alarm once a month 

The best way to survive or prevent a fire is through a well-known plan. Ask yourselves: "Are you ready for a fire emergency in your school or workplace? Does your school or workplace have a fire emergency plan?" If not, it's time to start today.

The Fire Paramedic Service is promoting fire safety all week. Staff will be promoting the importance of smoke alarms and other fire safety equipment at hardware stores throughout the city and conducting fire drills at various schools. 

Remember, "not every hero wears a cape, plan and practice your escape."