Firefighters say house fires are burning hotter and faster than they were only two decades ago and they want action to ensure the safety of both residents and those fighting the fire. The amount of time it takes for fire to consume a home has dropped from 16 minutes to just four to six minutes in newer constructions.

Factor in how long it takes for the fire department to arrive on-scene and it doesn’t leave a lot of time for a firefighter to safely enter a home and conduct a search for occupants.

Craig Smith is the President of the St. John’s Firefighters Association. He says that’s thanks to a variety of factors including new construction materials, open concept designs, as well as the materials in our furniture and electronics.

He says they’ve been lobbying to have building codes updated to address those concerns. That includes the elimination of fire retardant chemicals on man-made products in homes.

Smith says mandatory sprinkler systems are another option to help slow the spread of fire.

Gander Marks Canadian Fallen Firefighter’s Memorial Day

Meanwhile, today is Canadian Fallen Firefighter’s Memorial Day and the Town of Gander is coming together to remember some of their own.

Harold Lowe, Gander Fire Chief, says the department is opening up the station to the public to honour fallen members.

He says it has been a hard year for the town so the event will bring people together for a positive get-together and refreshments.

He says in 2019 they have had a couple of fatalities and car accidents which has been hard on the crews.