The Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) will hold events in conjunction with Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 6 to Oct. 12) at fire departments in its jurisdiction.
Fire Prevention Week is a nationwide event that encourages Canadians to take the time to learn how they can stay safe in case of a fire.
Many departments across the region are hosting free events for residents to learn how to reduce injuries and deaths caused by fires in their homes, including demonstrations and fun activities for children.
RDN-operated departments Nanoose Volunteer Fire Department and Coombs-Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department will host the following activities during Fire Prevention Week: Nanoose Volunteer Fire Department will be hosting Grade 3 school children at the firehall on Oct. 9 to watch the firefighters do a fire attack and rescue demonstration from the tower; and Coombs-Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department will host an open house on Saturday, Oct. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Fire Hall No. 2 located at 3241 Alberni Hwy in Qualicum Beach. There will be an educational display, hot dogs, fire truck tours and a firefighting demonstration.
Residents can use the RDN’s Fire Protection interactive map to see which fire department serves their area. Residents are encouraged to visit their local fire department’s website and social media pages or contact them directly to find out what activities are happening during Fire Prevention Week.
This year’s theme is “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you." The message strives to educate everyone about the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home. According to the National Fire Protection Association, approximately three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with either no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.
For more information about Fire Prevention Week, visit nfpa.org/fpw. For fire services in the RDN, visit rdn.bc.ca/fire-services.
