“A fire is a terrifying experience, so it is important to be prepared if a fire strikes your home,” said PEI Fire Marshal David Blacquiere. “Most fires occur at night when everyone is sleeping. Bedroom windows should be big enough for the occupant to climb out and able to be opened 12 months of the year. If you are unable to use the main exit because of smoke or fire, an alternate exit from your bedroom can save your life.”

The safety reminder follows a busy weekend for Island firefighters. The Crapaud Fire Department was called to a structure fire in a single family dwelling early Saturday morning. With fire blocking his usual exits, the homeowner was able to safely escape through a bedroom window.

In other weekend emergencies, the Miscouche Fire Department, with mutual aid assistance from the Wellington Fire Department, responded to a single family dwelling fire on Sunday. The Fire was contained to a bathroom on the main level of the residence. The New Glasgow Fire Department was called Monday morning to a fire in a barn which was used to store dry bales of hay. The cause was attributed to a high level of moisture in the hay bales, which caused self heating to the point of combustion.