Media Release
For Immediate Release

 

Saanich, BC – More than 1,000 grade one students at 25 Saanich elementary schools have participated in the Learn Not to Burn fire safety program delivered by the Fire Department this year. 

“Learn Not to Burn teaches children how to be fire smart,” said Frank Macdonald, Saanich Fire Deputy Chief. “Lessons taught to students through this curriculum will prepare them to act properly and quickly should they be faced with a dangerous situation.” 

This year’s Learn Not to Burn series has been underway in Saanich elementary schools since February 14.  

Students are treated to a new friendly face in addition to Saanich fire fighters – Sparky the Fire Dog. The popular Saanich Fire mascot helps reinforce the program’s important lessons. 

Students learn eight fire safety tips to help them in a fire emergency: 

• Fire is an adult tool, not a toy!
• Smoke alarms are important
• Crawl low under smoke
• Get outside, stay outside
• Report an emergency – 911
• Stay away from hot things
• Know when to stop, drop and roll
• Fire drills – school and home 

Participants are given a home escape plan to complete with their parents, and receive a certificate congratulating them on taking the program. 

Since 2007, the Saanich Fire Department has presented the annual Learn Not to Burn program to 600 classes and 17,600 students.

To reduce preventable fires, injuries and property damage, the Saanich Fire Department provides a wide variety of programs for children, seniors, businesses and community groups. Interested schools, businesses and other groups can request fire safety education presentations through the Saanich Fire department.

More information about Saanich’s community programs can be found at http://www.saanich.ca/EN/main/community/fire-prevention-safety.html.

  

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Media Contact:
Frank Macdonald
Saanich Fire Department
fireadmin@saanich.ca
250-475-5503