Emergency responders protect you from harm and this holiday season you can do the same for them.
The John Petropoulos Memorial Fund (JPMF) is urging business owners to keep their workplaces safe over the holiday season. At this time of year, many companies add decorations and undergo work site changes in an effort to get into the spirit of the season.
“We endorse this festive spirit, but we want to remind people to make sure their workplaces are safe for everyone, whether its employees, visitors or emergency services personnel who may need to attend your place of work,” says JPMF Managing Director Ian Wilson.
Many businesses are closed for several days or even weeks over the holiday season and that can create potentially deadly hazards if people don’t ensure their workplaces are safe before they close their doors.
“No one expects to have a medical emergency or a fire or a break and enter at their business, but the reality is these things happen and when they do, it’s first responders who have to tend to them,” says Wilson.
“That’s why it’s important to look at your workplace from the perspective of emergency responders. Can they get in and out safely? Can they get around while carrying someone on a stretcher? Does your workplace have sensor lighting in effect? These are all good questions to consider.”
Meanwhile, the JPMF is also urging motorists to pay attention to emergency vehicles this time of year. Facing adverse weather conditions, increased traffic and the potential for more impaired drivers, this can be an especially challenging time of year for emergency responders, so we hope that you’ll watch out for them this holiday season.
“Slow down when you’re passing emergency scenes and if you can, safely move into another lane and give first responders room to work,” says Wilson.
“When emergency vehicles approach with their lights activated and sirens sounding, yield the right of way. Safely pull over and let them pass. They could be trying to help someone you love.”
For safety tips and more information about the John Petropoulos Memorial Fund, check out our new website at www.jpmf.ca. The newly renovated site is an outstanding resource for workplace and traffic safety videos, tips, news, research and information. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
For more information, or to set up an interview, contact:
Ian Wilson
Managing Director
John Petropoulos Memorial Fund
ian@jpmf.ca
403-891-4269
