The Drumheller Fire Department at Work

August 2001 Vol. 22 Number 2

Guardians of the badlands The Drumheller Fire Department at work

As most Albertans know, nestled in approximately 5000 square kilometres. It the “Badlands” in central Alberta is includes three fire halls: one in Drumheller, A paleontological the world-famous Royal Tyrrell one in Rosedale and one in East Coulee. In Museum of Paleontology, one of the addition to the fire chief, there are two perspective largest paleontological museums in district chiefs and two deputy chiefs. The Photo courtesy of Royal Tyrrell Museum / Alberta Community Development the world. But what they might not department has nine pieces of apparatus that are used for firefighting, motor vehicle know is that this location is also collision extrications and water rescue. home to the very active volunteer Drumheller Fire Department. While Bachynski says that the majority of the 70 or so firefighting calls per year are Fire Chief Bill Bachynski and his 48 volun- smaller-type garbage and grass fires, they teer firefighters are responsible for cover- have had their share of major fires. He Preserving the heritage of an international site is one of the additional responsibilities of the ing the wide expanse of prairie in this recalls one at the high school four years ago Drumheller fire department. As a world-class distinctly unique community. The fire that caused “quite a bit of damage” as well exhibition and research facility, the Royal department provides firefighting services as others involving grain elevators and Tyrrell Museum displays more than 200 to an area of 510 square kilometres and lumber yards. “One of the unique aspects of dinosaur specimens, the largest number under vehicle extrication services to an area of our community is that we’re in the valley, one roof anywhere. It also includes a and with grass fires espe- paleonconservatory (an indoor garden), that cially, there’s lots of climb- ing to do,” said Bachynski. continued on page 2

“We’ve also had a few of our hotels on fire, which is In this issue a lot of work,” added State-of-the-art fire services from a rural location ... 3 Bachynski. “That really Changing history at Alberta Hospital Edmonton .... 4 plays people out so we Profiling the Pincher Creek Fire Department ...... 5 work them in shifts with Candle fires on the rise in Alberta ...... 6 A fond farewell from many ...... 9 lots of coordination of Holding down the fort at FCO ...... 9 people and apparatus.” Fire Prevention Week 2001 ...... 10 Bachynski says there has Risk Watch activities around the province ...... 11 been the potential for a New and improved handbook created ...... 12 few major fires in the last You were asking ...... 12 few years, “but luckily we Focus on Fire Prevention Canada ...... 13 caught them quickly and Alberta Fire Training School course update ...... 14 put them out.” Gathering and learning ...... 14 Grass fires are a constant concern for Digest ...... 15 the Drumheller Fire Department. In striving to keep its Receiving recognition for a job well done! ...... 16 community safe, much of the fire department’s efforts are focused on fire prevention. One deputy chief coordinates fire prevention A paleontological activities and works closely perspective with the community in promoting Fire Prevention Week continued from cover each year. Last year the depart- houses more than 110 different species of ment held an open house at primitive plants, some of which have remained the fire hall. This was such a virtually unchanged for 350-million years. The success that it will be contin- museum also houses 150,000 fossils in its ued each year. collection, many still wrapped in plaster and Because all the members of the encased in rock, awaiting study. Three fire halls (East Coulee, Rosedale and Drumheller) Drumheller Fire Department The museum building covers 11,200 square were involved in controlling the fire that destroyed the are volunteers, including the East Coulee Community Hall. metres on a 20-acre site three miles from the fire chief, firefighting is a nearest fire hall. It includes 4,400 square second job for everyone says Bachynski. “The more you do in fire prevention the metres of display area, a 200-seat auditorium, In addition to running his own business, less you do in fighting fires,” says a research library, laboratories, collections Bachynski also serves as one of two Bachynski. That’s why they put an all-out facilities and staff offices. deputy directors of disaster services in the effort into a smoke alarm blitz two years Fire chief Bill Bachynski says, “I try to do a ago. “We focused on the older area of town. community. “Fortunately, I have a really physical inspection of the museum at least good business partner,” says Bachynski. We checked each house to determine if it three times a year, making sure that my truck had smoke alarms and if they were being To gauge the level of response beyond is parked right out front so everyone is aware used. If it didn’t we provided new ones for emergency calls, Bachynski kept track of of our presence. I also talk on the phone with installation in the homes. It was a good calls from Monday to Friday for 21 days. staff at the museum on a regular basis too.” initiative that not only enhanced fire During that time, he averaged eight and a prevention in the town but also increased The museum is designed with an emphasis on half calls per day from citizens seeking fire safety. The building includes a comprehen- our positive exposure in the community.” information on anything from fire bans to sive sprinkler system as well as an alarm how trucks are serviced. Bachynski has been the fire chief for the system for the sprinklers. There is also a past seven years, and was a deputy fire separate water storage system that charges With the amalgamation with the MD of chief for 17 years before that. He’s also the sprinkler system. The sprinkler system is Badlands that took place two years ago, taken training at both the Alberta Fire tested once a year by a qualified company, Drumheller reverted from a city to a town. Training School and at the federal govern- with reports provided to the fire chief. Outside, In addition to protecting the 8500 resi- ment’s disaster services training facility in there is a cleared fire area, with a fire lane dents, the fire department also provides Arnprior, Ontario. around the building. The main hydrant plus fire prevention and protection for the two additional hydrants are accessible from federal penitentiary that includes about According to Bachynski, his biggest chal- the exterior of the building. 600 inmates and 300 staff. As well, the lenges are keeping on top of training both According to Bachynski, there have been two department provides fire prevention and in terms of paperwork and recruiting. His small fires, caused by carelessness, since the protection to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, recruitment efforts are a community museum opened in 1985. Very little damage which averages 390,000 visitors each year. approach. He’s always open to applica- was caused. tions for volunteers – “especially from young recruits who are stable in the Staff at the museum have been trained to community.” Bachynksi enjoys training evacuate, not fight fires. While the building is new recruits and advises them to “get a staffed 24 hours a day, the actual staff count little diary and jot down each call. Then in at the museum fluctuates. There are full-time 20-years’ time they can look back and and part-time staff throughout the year with a remember all their contributions.” large increase in staff during the summer months. “With more than 390,000 visitors a In a community that boasts a huge tourist year, we put a great deal of emphasis on fire facility, the uniqueness of 13 wooden safety and practise building evacuation drills bridges and a reputation as a great loca- throughout the year,” says Marty Hickie, tion for film makers, Bachynski is proud of marketing and media coordinator for the the service his fire department provides. museum. “These efforts plus the regular Equally importantly, he is pleased that inspections from the fire chief enable us to Luigi Vescarelli, Deputy Chief, explaining to some operate the museum in a very safe manner.” school children how a firefighter is there continues to be a high standard of protected by special clothing. morale among volunteer members.

2 Alberta Fire News August 2001 Heartland Hall: A complete safety package for the community State-of-the-art fire services from a rural location

Travelling along Highway 15 north of Fort Saskatchewan, you can’t help but notice a brand new building dotting the prairie landscape. While there are a considerable number of large structures on the west side of the highway, the east side was almost vacant of any facilities, with the exception of a Hutterite colony and a few farm build- ings. The existence of Heartland Hall now changes that landscape.

Heartland Hall, Strathcona County’s new fire station, is the home of new and improved fire, emergency medical and county services for North Strathcona. Located on five acres south of Highway 15 near the intersection of Secondary High- way 830, the hall is in close proximity to major heavy industry in Alberta’s industrial heartland. Heartland Hall is home to a totally integrated fire department where all firefighters are also qualified as paramedics or emergency medical techni- Heartland Hall, Fort Saskatchewan cians. The department is authorized for five full-time staff on every shift as well as Heartland Hall is located in viewing worked hard to have the hall completed up to 25 part-time firefighters who are distance of one of the largest concentra- and in use prior to the addition of 1500 called in as needed. The volunteer staff tions of petrochemical industries in workers who joined Shell’s existing that were at the nearby Josephburg station Canada. The emergency management full- workforce of 3500 for the upgrader project have also been included in the mix of time service that the hall provides paral- in June.” firefighters working from Heartland Hall. lels the 365-day, 24-hour operations of the The new fire station includes: The hall has been well planned both in heavy industries in the area. The hall also • improved service 24 hours a day by full- terms of design and capacity. While the provides advanced industrial-level fire time emergency professionals, department’s current commitment is for and dangerous goods support, features • satellite office for the RCMP, staffed 40 five full-time members at all times, both that are likely to encourage the pooling of hours a week, with 24-hour patrols in the eating and sleeping facilities can resources, personnel and training among the area, and accommodate more members. municipalities and industry. • contact offices for Strathcona County As well, the facility has been designed to Ward 5 and North Strathcona. Heartland Hall’s response capability was provide resources for community and developed with extensive consultation As Strathcona County Fire Chief municipal users. The front half of the hall and dialogue with industry, the commu- Laird Burton says, “this new hall is unique is the public area, and includes a compu- nity and neighbouring municipalities. One in that it has been planned to handle terized kiosk for the public to obtain of its most unique features is that it was industrial risk as well as provide a com- information from all three levels of gov- built prior to completion of one of its plete safety package for the community ernment. There are also rooms and a major clients. “Much of the focus was on from a rural area.” coffee area for community groups to use building the station to coincide with the for meetings and workshops. The idea for the new hall began six years work being done on the Shell upgrader ago as a way to bring a high level of service project,” said Burton. “Usually a fire The back half of the hall is intended for to a region that was fairly isolated and station is built when such a project is firefighters. In addition to eating, sleeping distant from any other large municipal finished. However, in this case, it became and fitness areas, there are also several partner. “We had to find a way to handle apparent that the greatest risk is during study rooms for fire service personnel, industrial risk as well as service rural the construction phase. Therefore, we including one that is designed clients,” stated Burton. to enable exam invigilation 3 Alberta Fire News August 2001 (used for studying and taking exams) for Volunteer fire service comes to an end the Alberta Fire Training School (AFTS) and the Alberta College of Paramedics. Changing history at Alberta The garage is designed to hold six separate pieces of equipment including a pumper, a brush truck, an advanced life support Hospital Edmonton ambulance, a rescue truck and an engine. The standard tanker is made of polyethylene, with a 15,000-litre capacity to enable the tanker to be filled with foam as necessary. Because some foams aren’t compatible with some metals, it was important to have a tanker made of polyethylene, said Burton.

One of the most important pieces of equipment at the hall is a 30-metre elevat- ing platform. As Burton says, “this is a huge asset for the region. There’s nothing else like it in the area. The platform is built for industry with a waterway to deliver elevated water or foam, which may be required for industrial fires.”

The apparatus bays also include a breathing air compressor room to enable the filling of breathing apparatus and a holding space for foam purchased or leased by the major industries. Burton expects that in the next six months the area will be full Members of the volunteer fire department at Alberta Hospital in Edmonton of foam. The end of May 2001 marked a significant pumper, followed by a new truck in 1968 The 20-metre hose tower serves a dual change in the firefighting service at and another one from the Emergency purpose: besides hanging hoses to dry, it Alberta Hospital Edmonton. Starting Measures Office in 1972. In 1981, the serves as a place to practise high-angle June 1, 2001, all firefighting services at the hospital received the first metric truck built rescue training. If all this wasn’t enough to hospital are provided by the Edmonton in Alberta, in Red Deer. make the hall unique, there will be a full Fire Department. weather station on top of the hall, wired According to Rudyk, “there have been a lot directly to the captain’s office. According to Pete Rudyk, the last person of changes over the years, and the shift to to serve as fire chief of the volunteer the Edmonton Fire Department is no As Burton proudly states, “everything department, the hospital has had a long exception.” At one point the department about this new hall was carefully planned history of providing fire protection had a full-time chief, Lorne Vandenberg, to provide an excellent level of service to through a volunteer department. “The fire plus 24 volunteers. It has also been the the residents of the area as well as the department began in 1923 right after the starting point for many who went onto industrial component. In fact, one of the hospital was opened and used for return- careers in the fire service in Alberta. Two most critical features in creating this hall ing war veterans,” said Rudyk. “All of the of note include recently retired Alberta was the ability to serve large industry and volunteers either lived on site, in resi- Fire Commissioner Tom Makey and be able to access them much like the dence or in houses around the hospital. Strathcona Emergency Services Fire Chief service provided to Refinery Row (near Each firefighter also had a full-time job at Laird Burton. Edmonton). What we’ve created is a com- the hospital, a tradition that has contin- At the end of its era, the fire department at plete safety package—one that provides ued up to now.” the best level of service in a rural area.” Alberta Hospital Edmonton consisted of Rudyk recalls some of the significant 11 people. While their services are no For more information about Heartland Hall, check out accomplishments of the fire department. longer required at the fire department, Strathcona County’s web site at: www.strathcona.ab.ca “The department’s first mechanized they will all continue with their full-time and click on “Resident Information,” then “Emergency Services.” equipment was a 1951 Bickel Seagrave careers at the hospital.

4 Alberta Fire News August 2001 Working with community members to reduce fires Profiling the Pincher Creek Fire Department

One of the unique features of Pincher In close proximity to the Rocky Moun- department’s three ambulances are based Creek Emergency Services is the way it tains, the landscape includes mountain out of Pincher Creek. Last year, the depart- runs its organization. The agreement it slopes, rolling foothills and wide-open ment’s response included 24 rescues from has with the municipality for providing prairie. The area is well known for its collisions and a number of ice rescues. services enables Emergency Services to set expansive ranching lands, but it is also One of the biggest challenges that its own budget and put forth a requisition home to the Shell Waterton Gas Plant, as Weinberger says he faces is keeping his to the municipality for funding. However, well as Canada’s largest wind farm. volunteers motivated and trained prop- what is truly unique is the erly, but he quickly adds: “I’m very fortu- ability to also use revenue nate to have good equipment and a good from its ambulances for relationship with the municipality and the capital purposes. These town. But most importantly, I have good funds are split 50/50 with Fire Chief captains that not only do lots of training the municipality and Kevin Weinberger but enjoy doing it too. Their efforts plus town. As Fire Chief Email: the courses at the Alberta Fire Training Kevin Weinberger says, [email protected] School, where I’m glad to send any volun- “that way we don’t have to Phone: teers who want to go, help me keep our go back to the taxpayers (403) 627-5333 members well trained.” for capital projects. It enables us to plan well.” The Pincher Creek Fire Department is also As part of the agreement, involved in many fire prevention activi- all of the equipment is also ties. Each year, the Beaver Mines, owned by Emergency Lundbreck and Pincher Creek fire halls Services. host an open house. “The open houses enable us to distribute a lot of material to Pincher Creek’s Emergency Services was The strong winds that regularly blow have kids as well as adults,” says Weinberger. formed in July 1906 by a group of con- created a major wind industry in the area, “We also interact with school students on cerned citizens. It has grown into an with many windmills erected throughout a regular basis through visits to four efficient organization that includes four the land. But as Weinberger points out, schools. I visit with the Kindergarten, fire halls—located in Pincher Creek, “with hot and dry weather, wind creates a Grade 1, Grade 3, and Grade 6 students Lundbreck, Beaver Mines and Cowley. pretty high fire hazard, something that all each year, plus I attend the Grade 9 Sci- Cowley is within the municipal district but our members are aware of.” Weinberger ence and Grade 11 Physics classes. This is a stand-alone department. Fire Chief recalls a major wildfire that occurred in gives me the opportunity to meet with a Weinberger serves as the full-time paid the area in 1997. “It started north of wide range of students on various fire regional fire chief, a position he has held Pincher Creek and with the dry conditions safety and fire prevention issues.” for the past two years. He manages all of and the wind, the fire spread to Granum. Emergency Services and its 65 volunteer It took seven days to put out and required Weinberger says the fire department also members. all of our firefighters as well as volunteers participates in a community fire drill from Claresholm, Nanton, Fort McLeod during Fire Prevention Week every year. The department has a fully integrated and the Peigan Reserve.” Last year also saw the fire department service providing fire, ambulance rescue, involved with the Risk Watch and Learn search and rescue, disaster and ice rescue Most of the 65 volunteers are trained both Not to Burn materials on a trial basis at services to a community of approximately as firefighters and as Emergency Medical one school. The success of this project 10,000 people within a 3,366 square Responders or Emergency Medical Trans- resulted in the materials being included in kilometre area. The jurisdiction borders porters, which enables them to serve in all schools starting September 2001. the Peigan Reserve to the east, the dual roles. The department averages Crowsnest Pass to the west, Maycroft at about 150 fire calls and 800 ambulance “Fire safety and prevention is an Highway 22 to the north and Waterton calls a year. important part of the work we do,” says National Park to the south. The depart- Weinberger. “The more ways that we The equipment spread across the four fire ment is responsible for servicing Waterton can interact with our community halls includes a full rescue van with heavy park, except during the summer season, members increases our chances of hydraulics, five pump trucks, a water which runs from May to September. reducing fires.” tanker and two forestry bush buggies. The

5 Alberta Fire News August 2001 Many people do not use candles safely Candle fires on the rise in Alberta

Candle-related fires caused 723 fire inci- Candle fires in Alberta dents, 10 fire deaths, 168 fire injuries and $12.4 million in direct property damage in Fires Alberta from 1990-1999. The data in the 100 92 106 adjacent chart show a disturbing trend— 82 80 91 compared to 1990, the annual number of 69 candle fires has increased 100% in the 59 60 51 51 71 10-year period to 1999. 51 A breakdown of candle fires by property 40 class showed most (90%) candle-related 20 fires happen in homes, comprising one- or two-family dwellings, apartments and 0 mobile homes. Ten (100%) out of 10 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 deaths, 161 (96%) out of 168 injuries, and $11.8 million (95%) out of $12.4 million in property damage in these fires, occurred in homes. Table 1: Distribution of candle-related fire deaths The 10 fire deaths attributed to candle by age and condition fires were distributed, by age groups and condition at the time of fire, as shown Age of casualty Condition of casualty No. of deaths in Table 1. 0-5 Asleep at time of fire 2 The 161 injuries in homes were distrib- Too young to react to fire 1 uted as follows: children under 16 (26); 6-15 Asleep at time of fire 1 men (55); women (64) and firefighters 16-25 Asleep at time of fire 2 (16). The condition of 145 injured civilian casualties (other than firefighters) in 26-35 Asleep at time of fire 1 candle fires, in Alberta homes, is shown Over 65 Condition unknown 2 in Table 2. Asleep at time of fire 1 Where do candle fires start in Alberta homes? • 36% in bedrooms Table 2: Distribution of injured civilian casualties in candle-related • 35% in living rooms/family rooms/dens fires in Alberta homes, by condition • 7% in kitchens Condition of casualty No. of injuries % • 6% in dining rooms • 5% in bathrooms Asleep at time of fire 61 42 Where else do candle Awake and normal 58 40 fires occur? Condition of casualty unknown/unclassified 18 12 About 10% of candle fires occurred in Impaired: drugs/alcohol/medication 5 3 other property classes. The most fre- Too young to react to fire 2 1 quently affected property classes besides homes are hostels/inns/lodges, outdoor Senility 1 1 properties, individual auto parking ga- Total 145 100 rages and general business offices.

6 Alberta Fire News August 2001 The share of fires started by candles in Per cent of fires started by candles in Alberta homes Alberta homes has tripled from 2% to 6% between 1990 and 1999, as the adjacent % of Fires chart illustrates. This increase is partly 6% 5.9% because total home fires have declined in 5.1% number and partly because the number of 5% candle fires in homes has increased. 4% 4.1% 5.4% 4% Since candle fires are high in both fre- 2.8% 4.2% quency and severity in homes, compared 3% to all other property classes, further 2% 2% analyses was focussed on candle fires in 2.1% 2.3% Alberta homes. 1%

How do the fires start? 0% • 59% because of accidents* 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 • 9% because of children playing with candles or something combustible near candles When do candle fires occur? • 8% because some form of combustible Candle fires were more frequent in the months of November, December and January, material was left too close to a candle with a peak in December, at 2.5 times the average monthly number of incidents. • 7% because of ignorance of hazard • 4% because candles were misused as a The chart below shows the distribution of candle fires by month. source of ignition • 4% because occupant fell asleep with Distribution of candle fires by month in Alberta homes (1990-1999) the candle burning • 2% because occupant was distracted Fires 161 or preoccupied 160 140 *The word accident is being phased out of injury prevention literature as it conveys the 120 meaning of an unpredictable event that 100 cannot be prevented. The Fire Commissioner’s Statistics Reporting Manual (1988 edition) 80 contains this word, hence the usage above. 60 74 70 43 43 45 38 40 53 32 What do candles ignite first? 20 34 29 29 • Furniture (not upholstered) – 12% 0 • Bedding/mattress/pillow – 10% May July • Furniture (upholstered) and furniture March April June January February August October (unclassified) – 8% September NovemberDecember • Plastics – 7% • Paper stock – 6% • Carpets/rugs – 6% How can candles be used safely? • Curtains/blinds – 5% There are two basic strategies to prevent candle-related fires. First, avoid using candles • Paper decorations – 4% whenever possible, and second, if candles are used, keep potential fuels as far from the flame as possible. Although there is much scope for human error when candles are used, the fact remains that every unwanted fire starts when a heat source and a fuel are brought together. The potential scenarios that can unfold with an unattended candle are numerous. Fire safety education programs should train consumers to imagine potential ignition scenarios so they can decide how to avoid potential fires.

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7 Alberta Fire News August 2001 Safety tips 6. Never leave children or pets alone in a room with lit candles. Children can 1. Keep lit candles away from How hot is a play with the flame and start a fire or combustible items such as clothing, be burned. Do not allow older candle flame? books, curtains, Christmas trees and children to light candles in their paper decorations. Final combustion bedrooms. A forgotten candle is all it products 2. Make sure to mount candles on non- takes to start a fire. Luminous zone of combustible holders that won’t tip incandescent soot 7. During power outages exercise caution (yellow) over and are big enough to collect when using candles as a source of light. dripping wax. 1200˚C Many destructive fires start during such Main reaction zone 3. Don’t place lit candles in windows 1000˚C Soot formed (dark) times since potential fire hazards can where blinds or curtains may close 1400˚C CH and C2 zone (blue) go unnoticed in the relative darkness. O diffuses into flame over them, and don’t use them in 2 8. Never use a candle for light when 800˚C Fuel vapourized and places where children or pets could pyrolyzed fueling equipment such as a camp-fuel 600˚C knock them over. Fuel rises up wick heater or lantern. Fuel liquefied 4. Snuff candles out when leaving the 9. When buying or using novelty candles, room or going to sleep. Remember try to determine if they might pose a that 70% of fire deaths related to The above illustration from Fire by Hazel potential fire hazard. If they do, or you candle fires happened while the Rossotti (1993) shows several reaction suspect they might, inform your local zones and their corresponding temperatures victims were asleep. fire department or the Product Safety within a candle flame. Consumers who use 5. Never let a candle burn down to candles for light, decoration, birthday cakes Bureau of Health Canada in Edmonton the bottom. and vapourizing scents need to recognize or Calgary. that a burning candle is an open flame or a “hot spot” that is at a high enough Further information on candle safety is available in the Health Canada public education temperature to ignite nearby combustible or bulletin at: www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ehp/ehd/catalogue/psb_pubs/candles.htm flammable materials.

Conclusions Although data on candle sales in Canada play with candles because they are curi- result, relight candles have been prohib- or Alberta were not available from Statis- ous and the flames are fascinating to ited from being imported, advertised or tics Canada, it is apparent that candle them. Sometimes people fall asleep with sold in Canada since May 1, 1977. This usage has grown significantly in North candles burning. Both the fatality and prohibition is enforced by the Consumer America during the last decade. A Na- injury data (Tables 1 and 2) certainly Product Safety Program of Health Canada. tional Fire Prevention Association report, indicate that falling asleep is a major Other than the above prohibition of relight Candle Fires in U.S. Homes and Other factor. Furthermore, the frequency of candles, there are no standards established Occupancies, indicates that the candle candle fires shoots up during the festive to regulate the manufacture or import of industry has grown 10 to 15% annually, month of December. Public education candles in Canada. Consumers also as- and the growth rate shows no signs of about safety measures when using candles sume that their candle holders are safe, slowing. Candle consumer retail sales in is therefore important. and don’t expect them to break or catch the United States were projected at $2.3 Not all candles are designed to burn safely. fire. Again, there are no standards for billion for 2000. The National Candle In the past, Health Canada and provincial candle containers. Although some glass Association (NCA) estimates there are fire commissioners and fire marshals have containers are made of tempered glass that more than 300 commercial, religious, or issued warnings of hazardous candles sold can withstand high temperatures, others industrial candle manufacturers in the in Canada. Similar actions have been are not. Until suitable standards are avail- United States, and each major manufac- taken by the Consumer Product Safety able, voluntary safety labels should be turer offers 1,000 to 2,000 kinds of candles. Commission in the United States, which considered for all candles sold in Canada. The NCA also reports that candles are has issued recalls for some candles, candle The American Society for Testing and used in seven out of 10 households. holders and candle shades in the past Materials, through its Consumer Products Fire statistics show that too many candle five years. Subcommittee of Candles and Candle users do not know how to use them safely. Products, recently published a standard for The Association of Canadian Fire Mar- Most candle fires involve human error— such precautionary labeling of candles and shals and Fire Commissioners passed a someone leaving a candle unattended or candle products. A copy of this standard resolution at its 52nd Annual Conference leaving the candle too near a combustible can be ordered from: www.astm.org in 1973 that the so-called relight candles material (e.g. curtains, furniture, decora- should be considered a hazardous product tions). Unsupervised children frequently Prepared by Mahendra Wijayasinghe, with the and requested banning these products assistance of the following at Health Canada: under the Hazardous Products Act. As a Cecylia Bilous, Tom Ben and Kelly Lehman.

8 Alberta Fire News August 2001 Best wishes to Tom Makey A fond farewell from many

A fine tribute was paid to Tom Makey Lethbridge Fire Department Fire Chief; upon his retirement from the position of Terry Murray, AFTS Board Chairman; Fire Commissioner of Alberta. After Rick McCullough, Saskatchewan’s spending more than 40 years with the Fire Commissioner, and his wife provincial government, and meeting an Wendy who also gave a enormous number of firefighters from tribute to Tom’s wife across Canada and beyond, it was no Cathy; Pat Graham, wonder that his farewell dinner was so well attended. More than 200 came to say goodbye and provide best wishes, and many more wishes came from those who were unable to attend.

In addition to his wife, three sons, one daughter and their growing families, many other special people joined President, Tom at the celebration including a Alberta Fire few from many miles away. Those Chiefs Association; making presentations included Dennis Laird Burton, Strathcona Gartner, Assistant Deputy Minister, Mu- Country Emergency Services nicipal Affairs; Wayne Morris, Calgary Fire Fire Chief; and Betty Hall-Petry, Department Fire Chief; Doug Popowich, AFTS board member. Manitoba’s Fire Commissioner; service; Michael Wood, Lac La Biche Some of the other many distinguished Don Gnatiuk, CEO, Alberta Fire Training Fire Chief; Bill MacKay, retired Fire guests included Gerald Pickett, Nunavut School (AFTS); Frank Albert, Cote St. Luc, Commissioner; and Lorne Vandenberg, Fire Marshal; Bill Eckel from High Prairie Quebec Fire Chief and Past President, Fire retired Alberta Hospital Edmonton who recently retired after 45 years of fire Prevention Canada; Tom Wickersham, Fire Chief.

Changes at the Fire Commissioner’s Office Holding down the fort at FCO

A lot of changes are taking place at the Damage Control. Graham also spent five Fire Commissioner’s Office (FCO). First it years in the construction industry before moved to a new location, then the long- acquiring experience and training with serving Tom Makey retired. The latest various fire departments on the west coast. Neelu Jairath , Sarah Barter, Pat Graham, change is the inclusion of Pat Graham as Graham spent many years with the Victo- Wayne Girven, Gloria Mercer, Mahendra Wijayasinghe the Acting Fire Commissioner. ria, B.C. fire department, first as a fire- Directors. He also has experience in the fighter before progressing through a Joining the team on a short-term basis command of major city fire combat units number of positions including: Lieutenant having trained with the Seattle Fire De- while the department conducts a country- Investigator, Deputy Fire Chief, Adminis- partment, the Victoria Fire Department, wide search for a new Fire Commissioner, tration and Deputy Fire Chief, Operations. the Washington State Fire Training School Graham’s enthusiasm, experience and Graham then provided fire safety and and the B.C. Fire Academy. education are much appreciated during emergency response services for Alberta’s this transition period. Graham says he’s enjoying the position Solicitor General before moving to his of Acting Fire Commissioner. “It’s a great Originally from Ireland, Graham attended most recent position of Fire Chief of the opportunity for me. I’m working with a the Merchant Naval Cadet College in Municipal District of Rocky View No. 44. great team, and it’s a privilege to provide Belfast, North Ireland, then spent five Graham is President of the Alberta Fire input on how the FCO will continue years with the Royal Canadian Navy in the Chiefs Association and the Vice Chair of to meet the challenges of Communications Division and Firefighting the Alberta Fire Training School Board of the future.” 9 Alberta Fire News August 2001 Teaching people how to prevent home fires Fire Prevention Week 2001

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the official sponsor of Fire Pre- vention Week for 79 years, has announced Major causes of Alberta home fires (1991-2000) that this year’s campaign—October 7-13, Unknown 12% 2001—has a baseball theme, “Cover the Bases and Strike Out Fire.” It is also the Electrical 6% theme for Fire Prevention Week (FPW) Cooking 24% across North America. All other causes 11%

What do baseball and fire safety have in common? Lots! Heating 10% This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign Arson or set fire 10% Child fireplay 6% highlights some “striking” similarities Candles 5% between the two and teaches people some Smoking 12% simple steps to prevent home fires. Clothes Dryer 4%

According to the NFPA, human error and years, “Fire Drills: The Great Escape!” was The following table summarizes what the problems associated with cooking, heat- FPW’s campaign theme focusing on home Fire Commissioner’s Office (FCO) in ing, and the equipment that provides fire escape planning and practice. So far, Alberta has planned to promote this year’s electrical service are among the leading documented reports confirm that 74 lives Fire Prevention Week campaign: causes of home fires in the United States. have been saved in North America—mostly Alberta home fire statistics also support children—as a result of that campaign. this conclusion, as the accompanying pie chart demonstrates—40 per cent of all home fires result from cooking, home Promotional plans for Fire Prevention Week 2001 heating and electrical hazards. Approximate FPW 2001 combines a favourite pastime Promotional Items Distribution Date with important fire safety tips to teach Fire Commissioner’s Office 2001 Fire Prevention Week Campaign Kit August 15, 2001 children and their families how they can Contents include in-depth coverage of cooking, heating and electrical fire safety “cover the bases” to “strike out” prevent- as well as Alberta fire statistics and the municipal fire loss picture. Kit to be distributed to all fire departments; regional health authorities; safe communities able home fires. Since it is known that network; Alberta Weekly Newspaper Association. The kit will be posted on the children are very effective at driving fire Internet web site of Alberta municipal Affairs at www.gov.ab.ca/ma under Fire safety messages home, where the risk of Commissioner’s Office. In addition, radio and TV stations will be contacted to fire is greatest, special effort will be made explore further avenues for promoting FPW. to include children in this Fire Prevention Fire Prevention Canada Fire Prevention Week Kit 2001 August 15, 2001 Week campaign, with the help from fire- Distributed nationally, and within Alberta by the FCO. Provides a national fighters and teachers. perspective in both English and French. Includes Governor General of Canada’s FPW proclamation, ready-made public service announcements and a media This year, a baseball diamond will be used release, Canadian fire loss statistics and fire safety articles. as a visual cue. The first three bases on the NFPA’s Fire Prevention Week Kit August 15, 2001 FPW diamond represent important fire Contains the theme and what it means in relation to this year’s FPW, and US hazards in homes—cooking, heating and fire statistics, safety articles, and a Home Fire Safety Checklist electrical hazards. The fourth or home plate McDonald’s Fire Prevention Week Program September 4, 2001 serves as a reminder to children to conduct McDonald’s Restaurants of Canada, working in partnership with the FCO and smoke alarm testing and home fire escape participating fire departments, will provide worksheets for children in Grades K planning with parents and caregivers. to 3 in communities served by McDonald’s outlets. In June, the FCO surveyed selected fire departments to assess interest, and those who responded FPW campaigns are often cited by fire favourably will be sent shipments of worksheets in early September. safety experts as being extremely useful in McDonald’s program also offers opportunities for a Fire Chief for a Day contest,

delivering fire safety messages and a chance to win a trip for four to Disney World, Florida. to families. For the last three 10 Alberta Fire News August 2001 Program a success in Grande Prairie Risk Watch activities around the province...

Last issue we brought news of how the For the two years of funding for this Bonnyville area was implementing the program, Dixon also has a number of Community Risk Watch program in its area. This issue, tasks, including: our focus is on Grande Prairie. • Providing schools with a collection of recognition for After successfully piloting Risk Watch in appropriate pamphlets and informa- Grande Prairie two schools, Grande Prairie and Area Safe tion on where to order them Communities received funding from the • Establishing resource tubs with useful fire chief Wild Rose Foundation to provide resources items for teachers and presenters and a part-time coordinator to support • Maintaining a Risk Watch bulletin teachers in implementing this injury board in schools prevention program in the community. • Maintaining a list of relevant videos that are available • Presenting to other community organizations so that they are aware of the program • Conducting an Injury Stewart Wilson, president of Grande Prairie Behaviour Survey every and Area Safe Communities, presents year to track long-term awards to fire chief Bill Walker. behaviour change success On an annual basis, Grande Prairie and Area • Providing prizes and certifi- Safe Communities honours individuals, groups cates for “graduation” and organizations with a safety award. The ceremonies every spring award recognizes a commitment and dedica- • Charting how Risk Watch tion to injury prevention to reduce the impact activities link into other of illness and injury in the community. curricular areas This year’s winner was Bill Walker, fire chief of With funding from the Alberta the Grande Prairie Fire Department. Walker’s Centre for Injury Control commitment to the community started back in (ACICR) Community Injury the late 1980s when he initiated the first Safe Control Fund, Dixon also Community group. Over the years, both he conducted a poster contest and his staff have provided hundreds of hours According to Angie Dixon, Risk Watch this spring. “It was advertised in Grande of support to the Safe Communities organization. Walker’s other contributions included Coordinator, teachers in three additional Prairie and area through schools, “ said sponsoring and maintaining the Risk Watch schools have been trained and provided Dixon. “We had many great posters and program, involvement in creating the Grande with manuals. “But in Grande Prairie the will be scanning them for duplication and Prairie and District Burn Society, serving as a support doesn’t stop there,” said Dixon. sharing with other communities.” member of the Alberta Centre for Injury “We have 11 different organizations While Dixon continues to focus on bring- Control and Research (ACICR) and assisting actively doing presentations to students ing more schools into the Risk Watch Safe Communities in the development of a and our teachers have an up-to-date family next year, she’s pleased with the Safety City for Grande Prairie. contact list for these people, so the pro- results to date. “The Risk Watch program According to Kim Fenton, Executive Director gram is really reaching out to everyone.” has had a huge success in Grande Prairie of Grande Prairie and Area Safe Communities, largely because of the incredible support Walker is very deserving of this award. “Bill’s from the Grande Prairie Fire Department,” overall commitment to injury prevention in the said Dixon. “Office space, laminating, community has had a tremendous impact,” staffing display booths—no matter what said Fenton. “Through his continued support we needed, members of the fire depart- of injury prevention programs and awareness ment lent a hand in helping.” in the community, he is helping make Grande Prairie a truly safe community.”

11 Alberta Fire News August 2001 Understanding the profiles of juvenile firesetters Expert advice from our two Rays New and improved juvenile firesetter You were intervention handbook created asking...

A new juvenile firesetter intervention levels of firesetting risk—little, definite, Q. When refueling my handbook has been created. The hand- and extreme—leads to specific types of vehicle I have noticed book was prepared for the United States intervention, including evaluation, that a number of com- Fire Administration, Federal Emergency education, referral and follow-up. These panies have removed Management Agency (FEMA) by Jessica are the critical components of a juvenile the latch-open device Gaynor, Ph.D. firesetter program. on the dispensing nozzle. Can I wedge The new handbook expands on the con- To provide a complete complement of open the nozzle while tent provided in the Alberta Juvenile services to juvenile firesetters and their I attend to my windows, Firesetter Handbook & Resource Directory families, the juvenile firesetter program check the oil, etcetera? (Second Edition, 1998) that must be part of a community was distributed to all fire network. This network consists A. The practice of wedging departments, and to partici- of a continuum of care designed open the nozzle is not permitted and pating psychologists, psy- to provide a range of interven- can lead to a serious situation if the chiatrists, and social workers tion services, including preven- nozzle falls during dispensing. At in Alberta in early 1999. The tion, immediate treatment and facilities where latch-open devices Alberta publication refer- graduated sanctions to juvenile have been removed, the person filling enced three FEMA hand- firesetters and their families. the fuel tank must continuously oper- books designed for Finally, there is a specific set of ate the nozzle. Some gas companies assessment and intervention tasks that will ensure the deliv- have removed the latch-open device of juvenile firesetters in three ery of swift and effective inter- due to a small number of incidents corresponding age groups: vention to at-risk youth and involving a static electric discharge • Preadolescent Firesetter Handbook: their families. when individuals return to the Ages 0-7 dispensing nozzle. Target audiences for this handbook are • Preadolescent Firesetter Handbook: diverse. Because the fire service operates Q. I recently ran out of gas. Having an Ages 7-13 the majority of juvenile firesetter pro- empty windshield washer fluid con- • Adolescent Firesetter Handbook: grams, these chapters are designed spe- tainer in my vehicle I proceeded to a Ages 14-18 cifically to meet its needs. Fire educators, gas station for fuel, but the attendant Dr. Jessica Gaynor, a well-known clinical fire prevention specialists, arson investi- refused to fill the container. Are there psychologist, researcher, management gators, juvenile firesetter program manag- restrictions on the type of containers consultant and author on juvenile ers, interviewers, educators, and team for storing gasoline? firesetting has served as the main author members all will find this information in combining the above three FEMA A. Containers for gasoline are required to useful. Because juvenile firesetter pro- handbooks and related publications into a meet construction standards outlined grams are part of a community network, revised and improved single publication in the Alberta Fire Code and gas station many other professionals will also benefit titled Juvenile Firesetter Intervention attendants are not permitted to allow from the handbook. People working in law Handbook. the dispensing of fuel into containers enforcement, mental health, schools, that do not meet those requirements. The six chapters of this handbook can be child protective services, social services, Containers found at most hardware viewed as the six building blocks essential and juvenile justice will find it useful. outlets that bear the symbol of either to constructing a successful program. The Copies of the new Juvenile Firesetter ULC or the Canadian Standards Asso- cornerstone of the blueprint is Intervention Handbook were distributed ciation (CSA) are considered appropri- understanding the personality profiles of to all Alberta fire departments and some ate for gasoline storage. Glass and light juvenile firesetters and their families. The other professionals in July 2001. plastic containers are unacceptable. next step is identifying at-risk youth and assessing the likelihood that they will For further information, contact become involved in future firesetting Mahendra Wijayasinghe, Research Officer at the incidents. The identification of the three Fire Commissioner’s Office, at (780) 415-0546.

12 Alberta Fire News August 2001 Educating Canadian communities Focus on Fire Prevention Canada— a national perspective

As anyone in the fire service knows, firefighting takes a lot of resources, energy and commitment. While fighting fires is foremost in the public’s mind, much of the work behind the scenes is focused on fire prevention—stopping fires before they happen. That too takes a tremendous amount of energy and resources, but there are organizations that provide a helping hand. At the national level, Fire Prevention Canada (FPC) is a tremendous source of assistance and support.

Since 1976, FPC has focused on working with the private and public sectors to achieve fire safety through education across Canada. Its mission includes communication, education, fundraising and development, and partners and supporters. Communication Partners and Supporters Ray Cox, Edmonton and Ray Ligenza, Calgary FPC provides a clearing-house of informa- FPC is very proactive in developing fire tion on fire prevention and safety issues prevention and safety initiatives that are Q. I want to install a wood-burning for fire services, governments at all levels, available at reasonable or no cost to the space heater in my home. How do I industry and the private sector across public and fire service. Much of this work ensure that the installation will con- Canada and serves as a resource for the is supported by the Council of Canadian form to the building code? public and media. Through its Board of Fire Marshals and Fire Commissioners, Directors it also interacts with other fire the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, A. The Alberta Building Code requires all prevention and safety organizations. the federal government, corporations, the installations to conform with CSA private sector, the public and the fire standard CAN3-B365-M, which covers Additionally, FPC organizes and coordi- service through sales of fire prevention clearance requirements, floor/wall nates the national launch of Fire Preven- materials and products. protection, combustion air provisions, tion Week on Parliament Hill and works etcetera. Section 9.21 of the code deals closely with the fire service to promote Through these activities and the tremen- with chimneys and flues. Individuals provincial and territorial Fire Prevention dous support and efforts of fire depart- should consult with the building au- Week activities across the nation. ments across Canada, there has been a thority having jurisdiction regarding significant decrease in the number of lives building permit requirements on such Education lost due to fire. In fact, over the past 20 to installations before work is started. The Perhaps best known for its involvement 25 years, there has been a 50 per cent safety codes officer involved may with the Canadian version of the National reduction—from 800 to 400. Additionally, perform a site inspection on comple- Fire Protection Association’s Learn Not to 88 lives have been saved by 35 children tion of the project. Burn (LNTB) program across the country, who learned about fire safety skills FPC also initiates and develops a range of through the LNTB program that’s been delivered nationally since 1994 to children These questions and answers were prepared by educational material for use by the public Ray Cox (780) 415-0508, Edmonton, and Ray Ligenza and the fire service. from Kindergarten to Grade 3. (403) 297-5797, Calgary. Both Cox and Ligenza are Technical Advisors for Technical Services, Building and Fundraising and Canada still has a long way to go to Fire Safety, in the Public Safety Division of Alberta become a leader in fire safety. As a Municipal Affairs. Development result, FPC continues its efforts to work One of FPC’s most important activities is with the fire service to make Canadian interacting with federal government communities the most fire safe in departments to lobby for funds and rein- North America. force the importance of fire prevention in Canada. FPC also organizes and coordi- For more information about Fire Prevention Canada or nates the Partners in Fire Prevention its resources, contact Christine Sones, Director of Special Events, solicits corporate and Development and Communications, at (613) 749-3844, e-mail [email protected] or visit the government funding for materials and FPC web site at www.fiprecan.ca invites corporate partnerships for events and projects.

13 Alberta Fire News August 2001 A wealth of training opportunities Alberta Fire Training School course update

Starting this fall, the Alberta Fire Training According to Chris Senaratne, AFTS believe that there is an interest in a School (AFTS) is offering a full- Manager of Accreditation and Course similarly structured program for those time program for those Development, “these courses continue the wanting to earn Inspector and interested in acquiring Fire excellent training opportunities available Investigator qualifications.” Inspector and/or Fire for those in the fire service. At the request Investigator profes- of the AFTS Board of Directors, we are For more information about the courses or to register, contact the Alberta Fire Training School at sional qualifications. offering this training in a block schedule 1-888-863-2387 or (780) 853-5800, send a fax to to best accommodate the needs of (780) 853-3008 or you can e-mail the school at The program will enable candidates to candidates. We had excellent response to [email protected]. Information and application complete the National Fire Protection forms are also available at the school’s web site at our full-time offering of the NFPA 1001 Association (NFPA) 1031 Fire Inspector www.afts.ab.ca Firefighter program the past few years and Level 1 qualifications in just six weeks. As well, a substantial portion of the NFPA 1033 Fire Investigator professional pro- Convenient, cost-effective training gram can be completed in seven weeks. Candidates can also attend the full nine weeks to earn Investigator qualifications SCOTI program update and credit toward Investigator certification. The program also provides qualifica- Now in its fifth year, the Safety Codes Officer cost-effective way possible. “We offer the tion for Safety Codes Officer certification Training Initiative (SCOTI) is providing fire- program in various locations and with at Level 1 Inspector and Investigator. related training opportunities for volunteer varying course material based on the fire departments across Alberta. The pro- feedback we receive. This enables partici- The five courses common to both Inspec- gram is coordinated by the Fire Commis- pants to the take the courses they need tor and Investigator designations run in a sioner’s Office through a partnership with without major disruption to their work consecutive series from October 15 to the Alberta Fire Training School and the and home life,” said Girven. November 9, 2001. Each course is four days Safety Codes Council. in length. The additional two Inspector Since the program began, more than courses are scheduled from November 13 In 2001-2002, the program is being delivered 1500 individuals have taken advantage to 22, 2001, followed by a two-day practical in eight locations across the province. of the training offered under the SCOTI evaluation. The additional Investigator According to Wayne Girven, Assistant Fire program in different communities courses are offered November 27 to De- Commissioner, the intent is to offer the around the province. cember 7, 2001, with a four-day practical program in the most convenient and evaluation from December 10 to 13, 2001.

The 53rd annual conference of the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association Gathering and learning...

A good representation of fire chiefs Executive Director of Alberta’s Industrial In addition to the industry reps, other from across Alberta gathered in Heartland, who talked to the 175 panel members included representatives Strathcona County between delegates about how municipalities from EAPUOC (Edmonton and Area June 23 and 27 for the 53rd and fire departments have to Pipeline Utilities Operators Committee) annual Alberta Fire Chiefs work together. and SIA (Strathcona Industrial Associa- Association (AFCA) Confer- tion), the president of NR CAER (North- Alberta’s fire chiefs combined ence. Based on the theme east Region Community and Emergency business sessions with industry Working with Industry, the Response) plus representatives from Fire site tours, attendance at the trade conference focused on a topic Master and Safety Boss. show and an industry-focused panel of particular interest to many discussion. Industry reps accompanied fire chiefs across Alberta. the delegates to their choice of tours to For more information about the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association, visit its web site at www.afca.ab.ca The conference’s keynote Dow Chemical, Petro Canada, Shell and speaker was Larry Wall, Enbridge/TransMountain Pipeline. 14 Alberta Fire News August 2001 New videos available Emergency Preparedness/Incident Heat Stress – this 14-minute video Prevention/Crisis Management – this shows how heat stress can lead to Digest 14-minute video ensures employee exhaustion and stroke. It provides safety in an emergency by following common sense steps to avoid heat this program’s guidelines for develop- stress, including correct clothing, Municipal Affairs has new Look waaaay up... ing an emergency plan. The video gear and cooling equipment, as well deputy minister Nothing in James shows what departments and facili- as first aid information. ties to contact for assistance; how to C.D. (Doug) Radke Kostuk’s three No Ordinary Fire – 13 minutes joined Municipal years with the announce an emergency and conduct an evacuation; how to handle the of dramatic footage of actual fires Affairs in March as the Grande Prairie Fire to help reinforce critical rules for department’s new Department media; and much more. It also explains the purpose and function of reporting, containing, and extin- deputy minister. Doug prepared him for guishing fires in health care has many years of the ordeal of a crisis management team and demonstrates a practice drill. settings as well as techniques for provincial government experience in sitting atop a 30-metre arial ladder evacuating patients using one- and Alberta Agriculture, Alberta Trans- for 100 hours. But it was all for a Red the Fire Dog and the 3 P’s of Fire two-person carriers. portation, and Alberta Environment. good cause—to raise money for the Safety – an entertaining and memora- He served as deputy minister of both local Burn Society. His time sitting in a ble 15-minute video for young Holiday Fire Safety – a 13-minute Agriculture and Environment before car seat strapped to the top of the children to teach them everything video showing the increased potential for fires and burns on special coming to Municipal Affairs. ladder raised $17,000 and may even they need to know about fire safety. get him into the Guinness Book of occasions and holidays—including Doug was born in Lacombe and The video introduces the 3 P’s of fire World Records. “Some of the fire- safety: PLANNING, PRACTICE, Thanksgiving, Halloween, Hanukkah, educated at the University of Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. The fighters have submitted the paper- PREVENTION and features Red the Alberta, where he earned a Bachelor work and we’re just waiting to hear if video addresses specific holiday of Arts degree in political science fire dog, who explains making a we’ve been accepted,” said Kostuk. family fire escape plan, preventing fire activities and their associated risks, and economics. He also obtained his such as fireworks, candles, open at home and protecting yourself. masters in public administration Kostuk, 27, was chosen for the May flames, festive lights, electrical from Carleton University in Ottawa. ladder-sit from a number of depart- Smokey’s Fire Safety Tips is a 12- wiring, decorations, cooking, outdoor ment volunteers. “I was up there from “Alberta’s fire service plays a critical minute video about Smokey the Bear. grilling, smoking, Christmas trees, a Wednesday to a Sunday and I didn’t Kids everywhere love Smokey. In this and general fire safety. role in keeping our communities sleep more than about two hours a safe, and that was never more delightful live-action story, Smokey day because you couldn’t get comfort- teaches young children a valuable Adventures of Safety Frog: Fire apparent than this spring when fire Safety – a 10-minute video demon- able enough,” he said. According to lesson about playing with matches. threatened many municipalities,” Kostuk, the most difficult part of his sit strating vital fire safety rules to said Radke. “The department was lack of mobility and boredom, Fire Extinguishers: On the Spot children in an entertaining and easy- appreciates all that firefighters do to though Grande Prairie residents did Know-how – a 12-minute video to-remember way. See Georgette the maintain the safety of Albertans.” come to see what he was up to and that shows professional firefighters puppet frog transform into Safety even got crane rides to pay him a visit. in live-action demonstrations. Also Frog to prevent her friends from Mark your calendar shows graphic illustrations of following the match puppet’s advice Allowed five minutes of ground time portable fire extinguisher use. to “light up my light.” Safety Frog • August 11-12 for every hour on top of the ladder, Includes practical, detailed informa- also instructs the other puppets Provincial Hose Coupling Kostuk generally saved up his breaks tion on choosing the right model as about smoke alarms, safety with Strathcona County and took them at eight-hour intervals. well as installation and upkeep. Also fireplaces, and a home fire drill. This • October 7-13 Three colleagues kept watch at all covers when to use an extinguisher performance by the Schiffelly Fire Prevention Week times from the ground to look after and safe and effective use. Puppets, complete with a Superman food, donations, site control and spoof, will appeal to elementary crane operation. Asked whether he How to Select and Safely Use Free-wheeling safe house school children. The video includes a would do it again Kostuk was Portable Fire Extinguishers – this demonstration of a properly executed The Grande Prairie and District Burn video is useful for showing employees skeptical. “I don’t think so right now, classroom fire drill. Society recently opened the doors to but you never know.” how to operate portable fire extin- its Kids Community Safe House, guishers safely and effectively. Viewers Fire and the Elderly – this 12-minute which looks like a luxurious camper- Check it out ... will learn how to use fire extinguish- video presents the special challenges trailer. The $60,000 unit constructed ers, when to use them and why people faced by senior citizens with respect If you haven’t surfed the Fire in Pennsylvania is the first of its kind should practise beforehand. to fire prevention in the home. It Commissioner’s Office web site in the province, though similar units shows seniors what they need to lately, you might be in for a surprise. Fire Extinguisher Training: Using The exist in Ontario, Winnipeg and know to prevent fires, and what they There’s a wealth of useful material Whistler. It will be wheeled out to P.A.S.S. Technique – a 15-minute should do if a fire occurs. Details all and resources contained on the site, schools and events to teach children video on when and how to use a fire aspects of EDITH—exit drills in the including current and back issues of extinguisher before you need it. Key about the dangers of fire and what home—and includes special sections Fire News. to do if fire happens. The Commu- topics include conditions where on smoking, heating sources, kitchen portable extinguishers can be used, nity Lottery Board and the Alberta The web site also provides updated safety, and electrical appliances. the different classes of fire and which Lottery Fund donated $40,000 for statistics, relevant key dates and extinguisher to use, how to approach the project and the GP and District information plus links to many other a fire using the P.A.S.S. Technique— Burn Society raised the rest. fire-related web sites. Check it out PULL, AIM, SQUEEZE, SWEEP, proper at www.gov.ab.ca/ma/fco fire extinguisher installation and maintenance and basic fire safety.

15 Alberta Fire News August 2001 The Fire Commissioner’s Office gets Bronze Alberta Fire News is published three times a year, by the Fire Receiving recognition Commissioner’s Office of Alberta Municipal Affairs, for the information for a job well done! of the fire service and others with an interest in fire protection. More than 10 years of Opinions expressed in this publication focused efforts towards are those of the contributors and do children’s fire safety not necessarily reflect the views or education have paid off for policies of Alberta Municipal Affairs the Fire Commissioner’s or the Government of Alberta. Your Office with a Bronze at the comments and suggestions are 2001 Premier’s Award of Excellence. encouraged. The contents of Alberta Fire News may be reproduced The Premier’s Award of with the appropriate credit to the Excellence Program is source. The editorial office of designed to promote and Alberta Fire News is located at: recognize superior client service and business prac- 11th Floor, Commerce Place tices in the Alberta public 10155-102 Street service. A ceremony was Edmonton, Alberta T5J 4L4 held on June 18, 2001 to Phone: (780) 427-8392 recognize winners of the Fax: (780) 427-5898 Premier’s Award. Each team From left: Gloria Mercer, Assistant Deputy Minister Dennis Gartner, Web site: www.gov.ab.ca/ma honoured with the award, Wendy Butterworth, Premier Ralph Klein, Tom Makey and which is displayed at the Mahendra Wijayasinghe. Jayne Jeneroux Legislature Building, re- Writer ceived a carving to recognize its achieve- “The team wishes to recognize its partners, Jack Born, Design Quarry ments. Each member also received a specifically the municipal fire depart- Design and Pre-Press Production certificate signed by the Premier, a lapel ments, the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association’s pin and the opportunity to use the award Public Fire Safety Education Committee, Editorial Board logo on business cards, letterhead and Fire Prevention Canada, Health Canada, Lyle Birnie documents. McDonald’s Restaurants, and the Alberta Fire Chief Centre for Injury Control and Research, to Westlock Fire Department The award winning team at the Fire Com- name a few, who have worked with us to missioner’s Office consisted of Mahendra Bob Galloway implement these programs,” said Wijayasinghe (team leader), Tom Makey Fire Chief Wijayasinghe. “Thanks also go to all our (team sponsor), Wayne Girven, Gloria County of Leduc partners who wrote letters supporting our Mercer and Wendy Butterworth. Alberta Municipal Affairs: submission,” he added. Pat Graham Acting Fire Commissioner Summary of reductions achieved in Alberta between Wayne Girven two 10-year periods: 1980-1989 and 1990-1999 Assistant Fire Commissioner Measure 1980-1989 1990-1999 Change from 1980-1999 Mahendra Wijayasinghe Research Officer Number of fireplay fire incidents 5356 2302 -57% Jay O’Neill Number of all deaths from fireplay fires 51 19 -63% Director Communications Number of child deaths from fireplay fires 42 15 -64% Karen Sigurdson Number of child deaths from all fires 110 72 -35% Public Affairs Officer Age specific fire death rate* 37.5 16 -57%

*Fire death rate per 100,000 population for children aged 0 to 4 years.

16 ISSN 0848-6794 Alberta Fire News August 2001