Home Safety Tips
Here are some tips to ensure your safety and protect your home from unwanted fire:
Smoke Alarms
When installed, ensure smoke alarms are within fire safety standards (Install smoke alarms at least four inches from the wall when mounting on a ceiling and on the ceiling for example).
Smoke alarms should be installed on every floor of your house.
Test your smoke alarms every 30 days and replace the batteries at least once a year.
Your smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.
Electrical Appliances
Don't overload electrical outlets or extension cords
Be sure all your electrical appliances are ULC labeled.
If appliances aren't working properly, have them repaired by a qualified professional – do not attempt any repairs yourself.
Unplug an electrical device if you feel a zap or tingle when you touch it, if you smell burning smell, or if it blows a fuse
Do not tamper with circuit breakers; they are there to protect you.
Check new fuses are the right size and amperage prior to connecting.
Unplug appliances like toasters, hair dryers, and irons after use.
Promptly replace any electrical cords that are cracked or frayed or heat up when used
In the Kitchen
Keep your stove and oven clean.
Keep paper towels away from all appliances.
Do not hang curtains or store things over the stove especially oven mitts or tea towels.
If a grease fire starts, never douse it with water. Slide a lid over the pan to smother the flames, and turn off the burner.
Basement or Garage
If you keep gasoline or propane hand, store it outside your home or in a detached garage or shed.
Always store paint and other flammable liquids in their original labeled containers with tight fitting lids.
Store flammable liquids away from all sources of heat; heaters, pilot lights, appliances and other sources of heat.
Do not store anything near the furnace or heater. Have your furnace checked every year by a professional.
Living & Family Rooms
Keep portable space heaters a safe distance from anything flammable. 1 meter is the safety standard.
Always turn heaters off when you go to bed or go out.
Use a metal screen on wood burning fireplaces. Keep any and all decorations, carpets or other flammable material away from the fireplace opening.
Have your chimney professionally checked once a year.
Make sure TVs and stereos have space around them to breath. These items can easily overheat if stacked or crowded.
For more information on fire safety tips go to your local fire department web site.
