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A GUIDELINE TO DEVELOPING A
FIRE PREVENTION PROGRAM

Introduction

North America has one of the worst fire loss records in the world. Traditionally in North America the primary focus has been a combination of built-in fire protection and the ability to throw massive amounts of water on the fire. Reactive vs. Proactive.

The windows of opportunity are open. The fire service today must be a builder, thinking strategically about fire protection program(s). New benchmarks or yardsticks must be developed against which the fire service will be measured. The benchmarks are springing from a vision of the future, supported by mission statements, goals and objectives. These benchmarks will serve as the guide posts for fire protection delivery levels.

A fire prevention program is an important tool to protect your community and yourself, as a fire fighter, as well as reducing potential fire losses. The Manitoba Building Code and Manitoba Fire Code are there to protect the fire fighter who will normally be the last person in the building, therefore:

  • The fire department should have input into or knowledge about new construction in their communities.
  • The fire departments, building authority and their councils must work together to ensure buildings in their communities are being used as originally designed. If changes occur in usage, it is imperative that the building and fire code requirements reflect this change. (e.g. a clothing store changes to a furniture refinishing; a residence to a restaurant; a clothing store main floor with residential suites above changes to furniture refinishing still maintaining the residential suites on the second floor.)

There are three steps to follow to implement a successful Fire Prevention Plan in your Community.

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