Fire Prevention Week

Fire Prevention Week

Fire Prevention Week

Fire Prevention Week: October 8th-14th, 2023

As Fire Prevention Week (FPW) approaches, the Office of the Fire Marshal is reminding Northwest Territories (NWT) residents about the simple but important steps they can take to help reduce the risk of fire when cooking at home. Unattended cooking is one of the leading causes of home fires, so make sure you know how to prevent and deal with a cooking fire for everyone’s safety.

“Cooking safety starts with YOU! Pay attention to fire prevention” is the message fire and life safety educators in the NWT will be promoting during Fire Prevention Week 2023, October 8-14th, 2023.

COOKING SAFETY TIPS

  • Stay alert! Do not use the stove or stovetop if you are sleepy or drowsy.
  • Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
  • Always keep a close eye on what you’re cooking. For foods with longer cook times, such as those that are simmering or baking, set a timer to help monitor them carefully.
  • Clear the cooking area of combustible items and keep anything that can burn, such as dish towels, oven mitts, food packaging, and paper towels.
  • Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove.
  • Keep an oven mitt and lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner.
  • Create a “kid and pet free zone” of at least three feet (one meter) around the cooking area and anywhere else hot food or drink is prepared or carried.
  • When you are finished cooking make sure to remove all items from the stovetop and turn off the heating elements.
  • Keep a working fire extinguisher in the kitchen.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE A COOKING FIRE
  • Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.

  • Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.

  • If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.

  • Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.

  • For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Resources for Schools and Families*

Resources for Fire Departments*

* Reproduced from NFPA's Fire Prevention Week website. © 2023 NFPA.