Being informed about fire prevention protects your family

Alberta marks fire prevention week, October 9 - 15

Government of Alberta information bulletin

Every year, Alberta averages 31 deaths, 230 injuries and more than $380 million in direct property loss due to house fires. Many of these fires could have been prevented.

Albertans are encouraged to get the information they need to protect their families from fire during fire prevention week, Oct. 9 to 15. Based on fire statistics, unattended cooking is the number one cause of home fires and fire injuries, while careless smoking is the top cause of home fire fatalities.
“There are steps all of us can take to reduce the chance fire will happen in our homes,” said Hector Goudreau, Minister of Municipal Affairs. “When fire breaks out, we may only have three minutes to escape before the effects of toxic smoke take over. That’s why I encourage all Albertans to take every opportunity to learn about fire prevention and how to escape from your home should a fire occur.”


Albertans can help keep their families safe from fire by following these simple steps to help prevent cooking and kitchen fires.

Never leave your cooking unattended. If you must leave your cooking, turn off the heat source.
Avoid cooking if you are tired, drowsy or under the influence of medication or alcohol.
If a grease fire starts, wear an oven mitt, put a tight-fitting lid on the pot or pan to smother the flames and then turn off the heat. Do not move the flaming pan and never throw water on a grease fire.
Fry foods in a temperature-controlled electric skillet or fryer. These appliances are designed not to exceed a maximum temperature of 200 degrees Celsius.
Wear tight fitting or rolled-up sleeves when using the stove; loose, dangling clothing can easily catch fire.
Keep a fire extinguisher approved for kitchen use nearby. Learn what type of fire it helps suppress and how to operate it properly. Always store it away from the stove.

For more fire prevention tips in the home, visit www.3minutedrill.alberta.ca.