Released on October 11, 2016
Today, the Government of Saskatchewan and Grades 3 to 5 students from Marion McVeety School and St. Gabriel School helped Sparky the Fire Dog celebrate his 65th birthday during National Fire Prevention Week.
“The Government of Saskatchewan is pleased to proclaim October 9-15 Fire Prevention Week across the province,” Education Minister Don Morgan said on behalf of Government Relations Minister Donna Harpauer. “Helping Sparky celebrate his birthday is part of our ongoing work to educate our young people about fire prevention.”
“Smoke alarms are the first line of defense in every home,” Regina Fire Chief Ernie Polsom said. “They are inexpensive sentinels keeping watch for dangerous smoke and the alerts can provide critical seconds to escape. Like any appliance, smoke alarms get old and need to be replaced. Help us help you by checking your smoke alarms regularly and replacing them as required by the manufacturer. The only way that a smoke alarm can help is if it works.”
Sparky was joined by Minister Morgan, Fire Chief Polsom and Emergency Management and Fire Safety Commissioner Duane McKay to give the students a smoke alarm demonstration. Following the presentation, Sparky was surprised with a birthday cake and a gift of smoke alarms to share with each of the students.
Regina Fire and Protective Services were on site to assist with handing out smoke alarms and had a fire truck on site for a demonstration.
Sparky said:
- Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years or earlier if not working properly.
- Make sure you know how old all the smoke alarms are in your home. To find out, look at the date of manufacture on the back of the alarm.
- Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside each bedroom and sleeping area.
- Check smoke alarms using the test button at least once a month or as recommended by the manufacturer.
To learn more about fire safety, visit www.saskatchewan.ca and www.Sparky.org.
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For more information, contact:
Dauna Ditson
Government Relations
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2155
Email:
dauna.ditson@gov.sk.ca