Canada's Minister of Labour urges vigilance during the launch of Fire Prevention Week

OTTAWA, Oct. 3, 2013 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Canada's Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women, highlighted the need for Canadians to take all steps necessary to avoid the devastating effects of fire and smoke in the home and in the workplace. The Minister was participating in the 17^th annual launch of Fire Prevention Week at the Government Conference Centre.

"Finding ways to prevent injury and illness is an integral part of keeping Canada's labour force strong, healthy and competitive," said Minister Leitch. "As a surgeon, I have seen terrible injuries caused by fire. We are all vulnerable to fire, in the workplace and at home, so making fire prevention a priority is in everybody's interest."

Every year, the Labour Program partners with Fire Prevention Canada and federal, provincial and municipal fire services to educate Canadians on fire safety and prevention to ensure they have the tools they need to remain safe and healthy. On average, eight Canadians die in fires each week.

This year, Fire Prevention Week runs from October 6 to 12. The theme, "Prevent Kitchen Fires," underlines the importance of learning how to prevent cooking-related fires.

"We think of our home as a safe place and we sometimes underestimate the dangers we face at home, especially in the event of a fire", said Minister Leitch. "But at home, as well as at work, we should always be vigilant. Even in today's modern homes and workplaces, equipped with smoke alarms and sprinkler systems, we are not always safe from fire."

For more information on simple measures that can be taken to prevent fires from occurring in homes or at work, please visit www.fiprecan.ca.

SOURCE: Employment and Social Development Canada