Fire Prevention Week 2006

The Office of the Fire Marshal is reminding Nova Scotians to watch what they heat.

The theme for this year's Fire Prevention Week in Nova Scotia is "Prevent Cooking Fires: Watch What You Heat."

Running from Sunday, Oct. 8 to Saturday, Oct. 14, Fire Prevention Week is an opportunity to remind Nova Scotians about the devastating effects of fires and the importance of making safe choices when cooking and frying in the kitchen.

During the 2005-06 period, there have been a total of 837 structural fires in the province, resulting in 8 deaths and 20 injuries. The overall number of fires in Nova Scotia has dropped in the last five years when the number of structural fires was 1,568.

"I am pleased to see a decline in the number of fire-related fatalities and injuries in the province," said Nova Scotia fire marshal Bob Cormier. "However, our ultimate goal is to decrease that number even more in the future."

One of the most dangerous fires that can happen in homes today are caused when pots of boiling oil are heated on a red-hot stove.

The fire marshal's office recommends that all Nova Scotians use appliances with thermostats designed for cooking with oil and fat and always have an all-purpose fire extinguisher on hand in the kitchen.

When pan frying food, it is important to use an electric frying pan with a thermostat and a light coating of oil on the bottom of the pan. When using a regular frying pan, it is recommended that people use a non-stick spray rather than a layer of oil on the pan's surface.

Mr. Cormier also reminds Nova Scotians, that in the case of a cooking oil fire, to never use water to extinguish the fire or try moving the pot from the stove. Instead, he suggests putting a tight-fitting lid or cookie sheet on the pot to smother the flame and turn off the overhead fan to keep the flames from spreading.

All Nova Scotians have a role to play in fire safety and prevention. We encourage all families, businesses and community groups to educate one another on fire safety techniques and practices.

For more information on Fire Prevention Week see the website at www.nfpa.org.