From October 8 to 14, 2023 we recognize Fire Prevention Week™. This year’s theme is “Cooking safety starts with YOU. Pay attention to fire prevention™” Let’s work together to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe when cooking.

Cook with Caution

• Watch what you heat. Always keep a close eye on what you are cooking. Set
  a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
  
• Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove. Always keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner.
  
• Have a “kid- and pet-free zone” of at least 3 feet (1 meter) around the stove or grill and anywhere else hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

This week is also an opportunity to share information about the importance of smoke alarms, extinguishers, and escape plans, as well as share fire safety tips such as:

• Develop escape plans that take everyone’s abilities into consideration and practice them regularly with everyone who lives in the home.

• Install smoke alarms inside every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home.

• Keep fire extinguishers in kitchens, basements, and garages, and know how to use them.

• Close doors at night to help slow the spread of fire and smoke.

Use the following National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) fire safety webpages to support your personal emergency planning:

• What if someone in my home is deaf or hard of hearing, or has a disability? You can get more information on evacuation and emergency planning for people with disabilities here: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education
• What about escape planning for older adults? Making a home fire escape plan for yourself and/or the older adults in your home means making plans for your abilities and home environment: https://www.nfpa.org/Events/Events/FirePrevention-Week/Escape-planning-for-older-adults
• What if we have household pets? Just as humans prepare, it’s important to have pets ready to escape in an emergency. You can get information on how to include pets in your family’s evacuation plan here: https://www.nfpa.org/PublicEducation

Visit Thunder Bay Fire Rescue’s website for great fire safety planning resources, as well as information on fire and fireworks permits, fire code questions, and how to schedule a fire hall tour!

Have questions or feedback? Contact Mēsha Richard, Lead, Emergency Preparedness at mesha.richard@tbh.net