Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape.
That’s the theme of the 100th Fire Prevention Week and the message the County Regional Fire Service is hoping to get across to residents. From October 8th to 16th, the County of Grande Prairie will be hosting events at several of its fire stations to engage with the community and educate them about simple actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe from home fires.
County Fire Marshall Ken Atamanchuk says having some sort of escape plan for your family in the event of a fire is critical.
“Because once you’re out, and then you’re out and you’re safe, that is our key thing, so when we come on scene, knowing that the family is out, then we can go right to taking that fire and putting it out as quick as possible and saving that house.”
At the open houses, residents will be able to meet with firefighters, tour a station, and learn how to create an escape plan. Atamanchuk is adamant that being ready in the event of a tragedy saves lives.
“Make sure you’re always prepared because it’s honestly not if; it’s when. It could happen and it’s always that one step of being prepared that goes a long way for you and your safety and your family.”
Pancake breakfasts will be served at the Clairmont Fire Station on October 8th and at the Teepee Creek and La Glace Fire Stations on October 16th. Barbecues will be held at the fire station in Wembley on OCtober 9th, and Bezanson and Sexsmith on October 10th. Appetizers will be served at the Hythe Fire Station on October 14th. Full details are on the County’s website.
Anyone interested in joining the County’s fire service is also encouraged to chat with fire personnel to learn more about the training and requirements needed to become a paid responder.