| News Release Communiqué |
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TORONTO, Ontario, October 25, 2002
-- Outdoor amusement activities that fail to take adequate fire safety
precautions run the risk of being shut down, stated Fire Marshal Bernard
Moyle in a Communiqué issued to Ontario fire departments.
Concern over sufficient fire safety precautions for outdoor amusement
activities on farms and other sites was sparked after a recent fire
involving an outdoor maze constructed of hay bales.
“We advise fire departments to inspect every farm and site in their
jurisdiction that has public activities. Owners and operators whose
amusement activities have not been inspected should request one
immediately,” Moyle says.
The Communiqué outlines factors for consideration in fire department
inspections. These include: creating a fire safety plan or adopting
evacuation procedures and limiting the distance to emergency exits to no
more than 15 metres in confusing configurations such as a maze. Existing
legislation that can be used to control hazardous activities in and around
buildings is also specified.
“Fire department recommendations need to be taken seriously and acted upon
quickly to prevent a fire that could result in death or injury. Fortunately,
most situations are rectified as owners are concerned about fire safety,”
adds Moyle. “Under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997,
immediate measures such as closure can be taken if there is an unacceptable
risk.”
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For copies of the Communiqué or further information contact:
Rodney Porter, Office of the Fire Marshal, 416-325-3120
Janice Johnstone, Office of the Fire Marshal, 416-325-3151
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