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.
- Fire Prevention Week Poster Contest
- Public Events
- Smokey Bear
- Sparky the Fire Dog
- The Summer Program
1. Fire Prevention Week Poster Contest
Students in Grades 3 to 8 in Saskatchewan can participate in this contest. For contest details, how to enter and more resources, visit: FPW Poster Contest.
2. Public Events
Fire Prevention Week
When: October 5–11, 2025
Proclaimed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Fire Prevention Week focuses on promoting fire safety. Each year has a theme to encourage people to take practical steps to prevent fires and stay safe.
2025 Theme: Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
Learn how to reduce fire risks related to lithium-ion batteries and ensure safe practices at home and work.
For more information, visit: NFPA Fire Prevention Week
Test Your Smoke Alarm Day
When: September 28 each year
A province-wide event reminding everyone to test their smoke alarms. Remember: one simple beep could make all the difference in saving lives.
Emergency Preparedness Week
When: First full week of May
Emergency Preparedness Week is a national awareness initiative encouraging everyone to take action to protect themselves, their families, and their communities during an emergency.
National Public Safety Telecommunicator's Week
When: Second week of April
This week honors the dedicated men and women who serve as public safety telecommunicators. It’s a time to recognize their commitment and the vital role they play in keeping our communities safe.
3. 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
4. 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
5. 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. The SPSA summer students (Public Education Program Coordinators) travel the province providing programming to schools, libraries, and daycares to provide this messaging to school-aged children 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.