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(NC)-When Canadians think of summer, they conjure up images of vacations and long-weekend getaways, camping, picnics, spending time with the kids and, of course, going to the cottage. It is a time when relaxing in the sun and having a good time are at the forefront of everyone's mind. However, according to the Canadian Association of Fire

Chiefs (CAFC), studies have shown that summer, in particular, tends to be the most dangerous time of year for children, especially with respect to fire-related incidents. In fact, the number of children playing with fire increases dramatically during the summer. Even more frightening, children in North America are more likely than adults to die or be seriously injured in fires.

"Children are naturally curious about fire, and have more free time on their hands during the summer to find things around that house that can be potentially hazardous - like matches, lighters and cooking appliances," says Ken Kelly, president, CAFC. "Sadly, most don't understand the real dangers or consequences associated with fire. For this reason alone, it is extremely important that parents continue to teach their children about the dangers of fire."

In response to this, Duracell Canada and the CAFC are partnering to launch a unique, interactive program called the Duracell Fire Safety Drive. During the drive, Duracell and local firefighters will bring fire safety education events to numerous communities across Canada from June to September. Parents are encouraged to bring their children to participating retailers to learn more about the dangers of fire and how to adopt a new and improved fire safety and escape plan for their homes. In addition, consumers will be able to join Duracell Canada in its support of local firefighters by purchasing new Advanced Performance Duracell' CopperTop' batteries. During the campaign, for every pack of new Advanced Performance Duracell CopperTop batteries sold, available in stores on June 3, Duracell Canada will donate $0.25, up to $50,000 to firefighters' training and development across Canada.

"Fire safety has long been important to Duracell and we're proud to be a partner with the CAFC in this nationwide, community effort," says David Weeks, director of marketing, Duracell Products. "It is our hope that the Duracell Fire Safety Drive will remind children and parents alike that practicing fire safety is vital for families during the summer, as well as all year long."

During the Duracell Fire Safety Drive events at participating retailers, children and their parents will have the opportunity to meet local firefighters, tour a fire truck, participate in fire safety exercises and pick-up a free fire safety guide.

Please visit www.duracell.com/firesafety for event locations and dates across Canada.