October 10, 2023
Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) is launching a new initiative this Fire Prevention Week, to help Edmontonians determine how they can reduce the chance of experiencing a fire at home.
In 2022, there were 705 residential fires, which caused an estimated $60,554,000 in damages. The top causes of home fires and injuries caused by fire in Edmonton are preventable. These include cooking-related fires and inappropriately discarded smoking materials.
The Home Fire Safety Assessment Challenge helps people learn what they can do in their own homes to keep them and their families safe from fire. The assessment is an online questionnaire that will help identify areas of improvement and habits to decrease the risk of a home fire.
Those individuals who live in Edmonton and are 18 years of age or older who complete the assessment by October 31 will be entered into a draw for unique prizes. One community league or neighbourhood will be randomly selected and awarded a block party with EFRS. One city ward prize will also be awarded. The winner will be chosen randomly from those who have completed the assessment in the ward with the most participation and will have the chance to bring as many as five guests to enjoy a meal with firefighters at the local fire station.
Fire Prevention Week runs from October 8 to October 14, and focuses on educating everyone about the small but important actions they can take to keep themselves and their homes safe from fire.