Public Education
The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) believes that fire safety education begins at a young age, and being prepared is your best defense against a fire in your home. The SPSA offers many public education opportunities that we can bring to your community.
We know that the youth in our communities have a big influence on adults in their lives. For that reason, our teams hit the road each year to share the fire safety word. Check out the activities and resources available.
Public Events
National Burn Awareness Week | When: February 1–7, 2026
National Burn Awareness Week (NBAW) is an annual campaign focused on educating the public about how burn injuries occur and how to prevent them by promoting safer habits, awareness of everyday hazards, and practical burn‑prevention practices.
2026 Theme: Preventing Burns in the Workplace
This year’s theme emphasizes recognizing burn hazards on the job, using protective equipment effectively, and following safe practices to reduce the likelihood of thermal, electrical and chemical burns in work environments. For more details, visit: National Burn Awareness WeekNational Public Safety Telecommunicator's Week | When: April 12–18, 2026
National Public Safety Telecommunicator’s Week (NPSTW) is an annual campaign that recognizes the dedicated professionals who answer emergency calls and coordinate critical responses. It’s a time to recognize their vital role in public safety and the essential support they provide to keep communities protected.
Emergency Preparedness Week | When: May 3–9, 2026
Emergency Preparedness Week (EPW) encourages everyone to take simple steps to be ready for emergencies. It’s a reminder to make a plan, build a kit, and stay informed so you can respond safely when unexpected events occur.
Test Your Smoke Alarm Day | When: September 28, 2026
Test Your Smoke Alarm Day (TYSAD) is a yearly reminder for everyone to make sure their smoke alarms are working properly. The day encourages simple steps like pressing the test button, checking batteries, and confirming alarms are placed where they can provide early warning in case of a fire.
National Burn Awareness Week | When: October 4–10, 2026
Fire Prevention Week (FPW), proclaimed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), is dedicated to raising awareness about fire safety. Each year features a theme that encourages people to take simple, practical steps to prevent fires and stay safe.
2026 Theme: To be determined
Smokey & Sparky
Smokey Bear
The Smokey Bear program began in the 1940s to promote forest fire safety. It grew throughout the years with many promotional items including posters, bookmarks, songs and stamps. Radio, TV, and signage further help raise awareness about forest and wildfire safety.
For resources and activities, please visit: Educational Resources | Smokey Bear
Sparky the Fire Dog
Sparky the Fire Dog was a program created back in the 1950’s for kids who wanted to join Sparky’s Fire Department and learn all about fire safety. Sparky has grown through the years, adding magazines, a website and even a song to his resume. He teaches fire safety at home and occasionally teams up with Smokey Bear to teach kids outdoor fire safety and prevention.
For resources and activities, please visit: Sparky School House
The Summer Program
The public education summer program aims to strengthen public safety in the province by delivering emergency preparedness and fire safety education to students across Saskatchewan.
SPSA summer students (Public Education Program Coordinators) travel the province delivering fire‑safety programming to schools, libraries, and daycares through presentations, activities, and visits from Smokey Bear and Sparky the Fire Dog.
Contact us for more information on how to have Sparky and Smokey visit your community by emailing us at publiceducationspsa@gov.sk.ca.