Fire Prevention Week was held from October 4 to 10 and the theme for this year is: "Stay Fire Smart! Don't Get Burned^©.”

To raise awareness of fire prevention, Fire Prevention Canada hosted the 13^th Annual National Launch of Fire Prevention Week in the West Block on Parliament Hill in Ottawa. In Canada, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada and Patron of Fire Prevention Canada proclaimed the week of October 4^th as Fire Prevention Week. Representatives from various Government Departments, the Fire Service including DND, and other organizations including the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation, NFPA and ULC were in attendance. Also in attendance were 250 primary school children. The master of ceremonies for the occasion was Frank Albert, former President of FIPRECAN, who explained the importance of this year’s theme.

Mr. Ed Komarnicki, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Labour, the Honourable Rona Ambrose, was the special guest speaker. "On average, eight Canadians lose their lives to fire each week. It is vital that all Canadians maintain up-to-date knowledge of fire safety practices," said Mr. Komarnicki. "All Canadians share in the responsibility of protecting one another from fire disasters." Also in attendance was the Federal Minister of Public Safety, the Honourable Peter Van Loan.

"This year's theme underlines the importance of educating Canadians about fire prevention measures," said Mr. E. David Hodgins, President of Fire Prevention Canada. "There have been many needless deaths nationwide linked to easily correctable fire hazards and unacceptable behaviour. It is important that all Canadians are aware of the simple measures that can be taken to prevent a devastating fire from occurring in their homes and the homes of their loved ones. Be fire safe and protect your loved ones and your local firefighters."

Award-winning children’s performer Mary Lambert and her team were on hand to perform “Sing Out Fire Safety”. Mary entertained but more importantly educated the children who were in attendance on fire prevention and safety. Surprise guest Ronald McDonald entertained the children and played a large part in emphasizing Mary Lambert’s messages on fire safety.

In addition to enjoying a live performance, courtesy of Mary Lambert, and a visit from Ronald McDonald, courtesy of McDonald’s Canada, each of the 250 school children received a "FIPRECAN Bag" that contained a smoke alarm and activity booklet complements of McDonalds, a glow stick from Levitt Safety, and fire safety information complements of Health Canada.

A special thanks also goes to Levitt Safety who sponsored lunch for invited guests. Also to Morrison Hershfield Ltd. and RBC Insurance who’s financial contributions helped offset additional event expenses.

Please recognize our sponsors by clicking on the links that highlight their names and by visiting their websites.

Director Frank Albert	Ronald McDonald is greeted by President E. David Hodgins		Parliamentary Secretary Ed Komarnicki
Children's Entertainer Mary Lambert	President E. David Hodgins and Federal Minister of Public Safety, the Honourable Peter Van Loan		Mary Lambert & members of the Fire Service
President E. David Hodgins			Mart Lambert & Sam Gallant