We prefer not to think about unpleasant things, such as what would happen if a fire started in our home. Better to focus on preventing it happening, by observing the following guidelines from the Canada Safety Council.
Family Fire Safety
Plan and practice two escape routes from each bedroom. If one is through a second storey window, make sure you have a way to reach the ground safely
Make sure everyone knows your escape plan and outside meeting place, and how to call the fire department.
Fight a fire only if you can do so with your back to an exit.
Heating Equipment
Have your furnace checked and your chimney cleaned every year.
Clear the area around your furnace of boxes and papers.
Use a metal screen on your fireplace and burn only wood.
Keep portable heaters at least one metre away from bedding and drapes.
Store paint and other flammable products away from the furnace or water heater.
If you heat your home with gas, oil, wood or other fossil fuels, install a carbon monoxide detector with a UL or ULC label.
In the Kitchen
Never leave cooking unattended.
Don't store things over the stove.
Keep your oven and stove clean and clear of potholders and clutter.
Smother a grease fire with a lid – never throw water on the flame.
Never heat oil in an open pot – use a CSA-approved, sealed, deep fryer.
In the Home
Install smoke detectors outside bedrooms and make sure everyone can hear and recognize the alarm with doors closed.
Replace smoke detector batteries once a year.
Have all-purpose fire extinguishers near cooking and heating equipment.
Information provided by the Canada Safety Council.
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