Safety Tip

Fire Hazards in the Home

Fire Hazards in the Home

FACT:
Seven out of ten fires occur in the home.

Remove pots and pans from burners when not in use to avoid accidentally turning on the wrong burner.
Unplug kettles, frying pans, and other small appliances when not in use.
Do not hang clothing above the stove to dry — it could fall onto a burner and ignite.
When deep-frying, always use a deep fryer with a thermostat to prevent the oil from catching fire. Do not use a regular stovetop pot or pan.
Use safety matches, and keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children.
Keep a working fire extinguisher nearby in case of grease fires.

Use a fireplace screen to contain sparks or embers that could ignite rugs or furniture.
Do not use extension cords as a substitute for permanent wiring. Make sure you have enough outlets to power your appliances.
Use large, deep ashtrays. Before going to bed, check furniture for any fallen cigarettes or embers, and ensure all cigarette butts are fully extinguished by placing them in a metal container.

Never smoke in bed. Many fire-related deaths occur when smokers fall asleep and drop lit cigarettes in their bedding.

Remove combustible materials from your basement and attic. These areas can provide fuel for a fire, making it easier for a blaze to start and spread.
Have your furnace cleaned and inspected at least once a year, and check all furnace safety controls. Chimney and flue connections should also be inspected for leaks.
Remove any flammable liquids from the home.
Do not use oversized fuses. A 15-amp fuse is standard for most homes. If unsure, consult a qualified electrician and have your wiring checked regularly.

Spending an hour planning can save lives. Practise fire drills with your family!
Ensure there is at least one smoke alarm on every floor of your home. Smoke alarms provide valuable time to escape during a fire.
Make sure everyone knows two ways to exit each bedroom.
A window can serve as an escape route. Ensure storm windows and screens can be easily removed from the inside. Consider installing folding escape ladders for higher floors. In case of a fire, use caution when descending stairways, as they can act like chimneys for smoke, heat, and flames.
Don’t risk serious injury by jumping from high windows in panic. If you are trapped, stay in the room with the door closed, slightly open the window, and hang a sheet out to signal your location to rescuers. Sit on the floor to avoid inhaling smoke.
If the door feels hot, do not open it. This is a warning sign that smoke or flames may be present. Keep bedroom, kitchen, and basement doors closed at night to help slow the spread of fire.
Never re-enter a burning building for any reason.

Only purchase home heating appliances certified by a recognized testing agency, and ensure they meet or exceed the CAN/CSA B365 standard. For safe installation and use, contact your local fire department for guidelines and municipal code requirements.

Remember: In case of fire, do not re-enter the building for pets, toys, or belongings.

Follow these guidelines to make your home safer for you and your family. Start today!