It can take as little as two minutes for a fire in your home to become life-threatening, so every second matters in getting to safety.

Fire Prevention Week runs from Oct. 8-14 and Nova Scotians are reminded to plan two exits from every room in their house.

“In 2016-17, 24 people were injured and seven people died as the result of fires,” said Municipal Affairs Minister Derek Mombourquette. “Any number is too many. Every member of the family needs to plan how to escape a fire in their home and practice the plan together.”

It is especially important to teach young children not to hide in the event of a fire. Local fire departments have programs to help children become familiar with protective equipment that the firefighters wear so they are not afraid.

“When fire occurs and your smoke alarm sounds, there may only be a few minutes to get out of your home safely,” said Fire Marshal Fred Jeffers. “Everyone should know what to do.”

For more information on planning your family’s escape in case of fire, visit the Office of the Fire Marshal’s website: https://novascotia.ca/dma/firesafety/

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Source: Media Release