Editor:
An important fire safety program is in place in communities across Alberta throughout Fire Prevention Week Oct. 5-11, 2014, and extending over the entire month.
I am writing to make all parents aware of the initiative and how they can help.
Fire departments are working with teachers to educate children about the importance of properly functioning and installed smoke alarms. Watch for a “Test and Replace Your Smoke Alarm” homework kit in your child’s backpack, which includes a home fire escape plan and “Test and Replace” Fire Safety Checklist.
The packages are designed to work in tandem with the website www.safeathome.ca/testandreplace
It is critical to know that working smoke alarms installed correctly throughout your home double the chances of surviving a catastrophic house fire.
To ensure your families safety from fire, you must test your smoke alarms monthly to confirm they are in proper working order. Smoke alarm batteries must be replaced yearly. If your smoke alarm is more than 10 years old, it must be replaced.
Trent R. West,
Fire Commissioner,
Province of Alberta
