FIRE PREVENTION WEEK – \"WATCH WHAT YOU HEAT\"

This year, Fire Prevention Week runs from October 8th to 14th. The theme is "Prevent Cooking Fires: Watch What You Heat".

Corrections and Public Safety Minister Warren McCall will be visiting Sacred Heart Community School in Regina during Fire Prevention Week to remind kindergarten to Grade 4 students about the importance of caution while cooking.

"Teaching children about fire safety at a young age is the best way to instil good habits that will last a lifetime," McCall said. "It is particularly important for children to learn the safe use of the stove and oven, the most common kitchen appliance in the home."

"We all realize the importance of learning more about fire prevention and fire safety," Sacred Heart Community School Principal Starla Grebinski said. "We're pleased to work alongside our community partners as we continue to educate our children on this very important topic."

National statistics indicate that cooking is the leading cause of fire in the home, with cooking oil and grease fires causing the fastest-spreading destruction.

Saskatchewan 10-year statistics from 1996 to 2005 show an average of 736 residential fires in this province each year, with around 64 fire injuries reported annually.

More information on fire safety is available from the Office of the Fire Commissioner at www.cps.gov.sk.ca/safety/fire/.

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For More Information, Contact:

Andrew Dinsmore Corrections and Public Safety Regina Phone: (306) 787-8606 Email: adinsmore@justice.gov.sk.ca