As we’re in the midst of Fire Prevention Week, our Deputy Fire Chief Steve Malloy spoke to Arctic Radio News about the theme of this year’s awareness campaign, and why it’s important to be prepared.

 

This year’s theme is “Not every hero wears a cape: Plan and practice your escape”, which Malloy says is important because everyone should have an evacuation plan for their schools, workplaces, and homes.

 

The Deputy Chief also shared some safety tips.

 

"Always check your smoke detectors on a monthly basis. Typically, we change the batteries when our time changes in the spring and the fall, so be sure to change the batteries twice a year."

 

"When we're using wood-burn appliances such as stoves are gas, ensure that you have the carbon monoxcide as well as the smoke detectors on as well, because while we're asleep at home, they're our eyes and ears for our personal safety.

 

Malloy also recommends that every home have a small, portable fire extinguisher, saying that a fire doubles in size every 30 seconds, and that controlling it in the early stages is proven to be effective.