Christmas is a time to be extra vigilant says fire department. They offer 12 rules that will keep you safe.

By Staff

BURLINGTON, ON  December 13, 2011 – A house on fire on Christmas day has to be something that has all of us feeling devastated.  And when we read later that there was no smoke alarm – we shake our heads. “With all the hustle and bustle at this time of year it is easy to forget that Christmas trees, candles, decorations and meal preparations for holiday celebrations can increase the risk of fire,” said Public Education Officer Lisa Cockerill.

 

She urges people to “keep your friends and family safe by following these simple steps to prevent the most common types of home fires that occur during the holiday season:

Day 1     Water live trees daily

Day 2     Check all sets of decorative lighting to ensure they are in good condition

Day 3     Test smoke alarms

Day 4     Test carbon monoxide alarms

Day 5     Make a fire escape plan with your family so everyone knows how to get out safely if a fire occurs

Day 6     Don’t overload power outlets and use extension cords wisely

Day 7     Position space heaters away from walls, curtains and other flammable materials

Day 8     Make sure all lit candles are put out when you leave the room

Day 9     Keep matches and lighters out of sight and reach of children

Day 10   Watch what you heat! Stay in the kitchen when cooking

Day 11   Ask smokers to smoke outside

Day 12   Keep a close eye on anyone in your household who consumes alcohol while cooking or smoking

“A home fire is particularly devastating during the holidays,” said Cockerill.  Ensure you have working smoke alarms on every storey of the home and test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly. Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years and carbon monoxide alarms every seven years.

Return to the Front page
Print Friendly, PDF & Email

Comments are closed.