Fire Prevention Week commences on Sunday with a strong message emphasizing the importance of public responsibility in averting fire incidents.
The week kicks off with National Firefighter Appreciation Day, marked by a ceremony in Quebec City attended by Minister of Public Safety, Ian Lafrenière, to honor the exemplary work of firefighters.
Chris Ross, President of the Montreal Firefighters Association, highlighted the daily courage and dedication of firefighters in risking their lives. He emphasized the significance of recognizing individuals who contribute to successful firefighting efforts, alongside firefighters.
This year’s Fire Prevention Week focuses on the theme “You Are the First Responsible.” The Ministry of Public Safety reports that almost half of fire accidents stem from human errors, with 23% attributed to electrical faults.
Ross stressed the critical role of smoke detectors in saving lives, urging people to regularly check and maintain them. He also cautioned against common causes of fires, such as improper cigarette disposal and mishandling of lithium battery-powered devices.
