Firefighters will still be hitting the streets this Monday to help educate residents on fire safety, although it will be delivered a bit differently this summer during the current State of Emergency.
Fire Chief Jeff McCormick says while the program will be different than in past years because firefighters will not be entering homes to test or install smoke alarms or carbon monoxide alarms, we still have a tremendous opportunity to educate residents on the importance of fire safety and prevention, in spite of the COVID-19 virus and the current State of Emergency.
“With residents spending more time at home, it is more important than ever to provide the proper resources and educational materials on home and fire safety,” said Fire Chief Jeff McCormick. “According to our fire statistics, unattended cooking, discarded smoker’s materials and electrical fires are among the leading causes of home fires in the city of St. Catharines.”
St. Catharines Fire Services will begin the annual Alarmed for Life public education program for home and fire safety on Monday, June 15 and it will run until Monday, September 14. Firefighters will be going door-to-door weekdays between 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and weekends from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. to deliver fire safety packages in various city locations.
Precautions are in place to help stop the spread of COVID-19 and protect firefighters and citizens, including practicing physical distancing and an exterior based interaction only. Homeowners are still encouraged to report fire safety concerns or request a home inspection for a later date by scheduling an appointment.
Residents and homeowners who want to request an appointment, discuss smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, or have other questions on fire safety can call 905.688.5601 ext. 4224.