🔥 Fire Prevention Week 2003: When Fire Strikes: Get Out, Stay Out!
In 2003, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) emphasized the critical importance of immediate evacuation during a fire with the theme “When Fire Strikes: Get Out, Stay Out!” This message underscored that re-entering a burning building can be fatal and that having a well-practiced escape plan is essential for survival.​
🚪 The Urgency of Immediate Evacuation
Fires can escalate rapidly, leaving mere minutes—or even seconds—for occupants to escape safely. The 2003 campaign focused on:​
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Developing a Home Fire Escape Plan: Identifying two exits from every room and establishing a designated meeting place outside.​
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Practicing the Plan Regularly: Conducting drills to ensure all household members, including children and the elderly, can evacuate quickly.​
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Never Re-entering a Burning Building: Emphasizing that once outside, individuals should stay out and call emergency services from a safe location.​
📊 Canadian Fire Statistics Highlighting the Need
According to the Council of Canadian Fire Marshals and Fire Commissioners, in 2002, Canada reported:​
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Total Fires: 53,589​
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Fire Deaths: 304​
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Fire Injuries: 2,547​ nrcan.gc.ca
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Property Losses: Approximately $1.49 billion​ Alberta.ca
Residential properties accounted for 41% of these fires, resulting in 250 deaths (approximately 82% of all fire fatalities) and $712 million in property losses. ​
🧯 Community Engagement Across Canada
Fire departments and safety organizations across Canada actively participated in the campaign by:​
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Distributing Educational Materials: Providing resources to schools and communities to educate the public on fire safety practices.​
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Hosting Events: Organizing open houses, school visits, and community workshops to provide hands-on experience with fire safety equipment and demonstrations on escape techniques.​
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Media Outreach: Utilizing radio, television, and print media to promote Fire Prevention Week and its messages to a broader audience.​
🔗 Learn More
For additional resources and information on fire safety practices, visit the NFPA’s Fire Prevention Week page.
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