🔥 Fire Prevention Week 2021: Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety!
In 2021, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) designated the theme “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety!” for Fire Prevention Week, held from October 3–9. This campaign aimed to educate the public about the different sounds smoke and carbon monoxide alarms make, and what actions to take when an alarm sounds.​WSFP; National Volunteer Fire Council
🔊 Understanding Alarm Sounds
Recognizing the sounds of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms is crucial for prompt and appropriate responses. The 2021 campaign emphasized:​ WSFP
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Smoke Alarms: A continuous set of three loud beeps indicates smoke or fire. Evacuate immediately and call 9-1-1.​ WSFP
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Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms: A continuous set of four loud beeps signifies the presence of carbon monoxide. Leave the premises immediately and call 9-1-1.​ WSFP
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Low Battery Chirps: A single chirp every 30–60 seconds means the battery is low and needs to be replaced.​ WSFP
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End-of-Life Chirps: If the alarm continues to chirp after replacing the battery, it may indicate the alarm is at the end of its life and requires replacement.​ WSFP
Additionally, the campaign highlighted the importance of installing specialized alarms for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, such as those with bed shakers and strobe lights.​ OMFPOA
📊 Canadian Fire Statistics Highlighting the Need
According to Statistics Canada, in 2021, there were nearly 30 residential fires per day on average in five provinces, Yukon, and Canadian Armed Forces bases. Among these residential fires, 1% resulted in a death, with a total of 156 fatalities, accounting for just over three-quarters of the 202 fire-related deaths reported that year. These statistics underscore the critical need for public education on fire safety practices to prevent loss of life and property.​ Statistics Canada
Furthermore, over one-third of the residential fires (38%) that occurred from 2015 to 2021 had an unknown status of the fire alarm, while a similar share had a working smoke alarm (37%). A further 12% had smoke alarms that did not activate, and 13% had no smoke alarm installed. Death rates were lower in homes with working smoke alarms, where 26% of incidents resulted in death. Homes without a working smoke alarm, including those without an installed alarm or where the status was unknown, accounted for nearly three out of four deaths (74%). ​Statistics Canada
🧯 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 brochures and pamphlets on alarm recognition and fire safety practices to schools, community centers, and households.​
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Hosting Workshops and Demonstrations: Organizing events to demonstrate how to identify different alarm sounds and respond appropriately.​ OMFPOA
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Media Outreach: Utilizing local media outlets to spread awareness about the importance of understanding alarm sounds and promoting safety tips.​
🔗 Learn More
For additional resources and information on fire safety practices, visit the NFPA’s Fire Prevention Week page.
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