| News Release Communiqué |
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TORONTO, Ontario, December 17, 2002
-- On Christmas Day last year, a Toronto family, like thousands of others,
enjoyed a festive dinner with loved ones. Hours later, the family awoke to a
blazing fire that destroyed their home and claimed the lives of a teenaged
brother and sister.
“During the holiday season, which is supposed to be a time for celebration,
we see a marked increase in the number of fatal fires. Sadly, many of the
victims are innocent children,” said Fire Marshal Bernard Moyle at a news
conference today. “The tragic fire on Christmas Day last year is just one of
many heartbreaking examples that demonstrate how easily celebration can turn
into disaster.”
“There is a lot going on at this time of year and people can be easily
distracted,” cautioned the Fire Marshal. “Many fatal fires are caused by
people attempting to smoke or cook while under the influence of alcohol.
Remember that drinking responsibly also extends to the home. Never leave
cooking unattended, make sure cigarettes are fully extinguished and keep all
lighters and matches out of the reach of children.”
If a fire does occur in your home, the Fire Marshal has some timely advice
on how to protect your family. “It’s the law to have working smoke alarms in
your home. The fire service recommends you have at least one on every level
of your home and outside all sleeping areas. Test your alarms monthly and
never remove them except to replace them,” he said. “Creating and practicing
a home escape plan with every member of your family will help to ensure that
everyone gets out safely.”
“We want everyone to have a fire-safe holiday season,” said Moyle. “Your
fire department will do everything they can to help if a fire occurs in your
home. But ultimately, fire safety is your responsibility.”
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For further information contact:
Bev Gilbert, Office of the Fire Marshal, 416-325-3178
Rodney Porter, Office of the Fire Marshal, 416-325-3120
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