Unattended cooking is a leading cause of home fires in Ontario. To prevent cooking fires:

• be alert – do not cook if you:
  • are sleepy
  • have consumed alcohol, drugs or medicine that makes you drowsy
• always stay in the kitchen while cooking and turn off the stove if you must leave
• keep anything that burns a safe distance from the stove, including:
  • oven mitts
  • cooking utensils
  • dishcloths
  • paper towels
  • potholders
• keep a proper-fitting pot lid near the stove when cooking so you can slide the lid over the pot and turn off the stove if the pot catches fire. Do not move the pot until it has cooled completely
• wear short or tight sleeves or roll sleeves up when cooking, to avoid loose-fitting clothes from catching fire on stove burners

Smoking is the number one cause of fatal home fires in Ontario. Alcohol is a factor in many smoking-related fires. To prevent smoking fires:

• be alert when smoking – you will not be alert if you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, drugs or medicine that makes you drowsy

• never smoke in bed
• encourage smokers to smoke outside, including outside the garage
• check behind chair and sofa cushions for cigarette butts before going to bed if people have been smoking in your home
• use large, deep ashtrays that cannot be knocked over
• empty ashes into a metal container, not a garbage can, and keep it outside
• do not extinguish cigarettes in plant pots, which may contain a mixture of peat moss, shredded wood and bark that can easily ignite

Electrical equipment is a leading cause of home fires in Ontario. To prevent electrical fires:

• avoid running cords under rugs which can damage the cord and cause a fire
• avoid overloading a circuit. If additional outlets or circuits are required, have them installed by a licensed electrician
• use extension cords only as a temporary connection, if permanent wiring is required, have additional outlets installed by a licensed electrician
• do not link extension cords together, use an extension cord that is long enough
• plug air conditioners and other heavy appliances directly into an outlet
• install ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in bathrooms, kitchens and garages (GFCIs shut off an electrical circuit when it becomes a shock hazard)
• check electrical cords for damage, such as fraying or nicks as a damaged cord can expose wires and result in a potential shock or fire hazard

Woodstoves, Fireplaces and Fireplace inserts

Stay safe while keeping warm. To prevent fires:

• ensure woodstoves, fireplaces and fireplace inserts are installed by a qualified technician according to the manufacturer’s instructions
• have your heating system, vents and chimneys inspected and cleaned annually by a qualified service technician
• ensure all outside heating vents are not blocked
• let ashes from your woodstove or fireplace cool before emptying them into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid and keep the container outside at a safe distance away from the house and any other nearby buildings
• always use a fire screen in front of a fireplace
• burn dry, well-seasoned wood in fireplaces and woodstoves to reduce the risk of excessive creosote build-up in chimneys
• always start the fire using paper and small pieces of kindling
• never use accelerants to start a fire
• keep space heaters at least one metre or three feet away from anything that can burn, including curtains, upholstery and clothing

Heating and Vehicle Safety

• replace worn or damaged electrical wires and connections on vehicles and extension cords and use the proper gauge extension cord for vehicle block heaters
• consider using approved timers for vehicle block heaters rather than leaving heaters on all night
• ensure that vehicles are not left running inside any garage or building

Power Outages

The following tips will help reduce fire risk during a power outage:

• Make sure your home has battery-operated smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms. Electrically connected smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms will not work when the power is out unless they have battery back-ups.
• Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns instead of candles or hurricane lamps. If using candles, place them in a secure holder and cover them with a glass chimney, away from children and pets.
• Only use propane and charcoal barbecues outdoors. Do not bring them inside.
• Purchase generators with recognized approval labels. Make sure the unit has proper connection receptacles and circuit breakers.
• Only use portable generators outdoors and ensure that exhaust fumes do not enter the home. Allow the generator to cool before refueling. Refuel the generator outside, following the manufacturer’s instructions — store fuel for the generator in approved containers outside the home.
• Use only portable space heaters that have been designed for indoor use and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Provide adequate ventilation by opening a window slightly while the heater is in use. Before refueling, turn off the heater, wait for it to cool and take the heater outside to refuel.
• Make sure electric stove elements and small appliances are off or unplugged to prevent fires from occurring when the electricity is restored.
• Have at least one phone that does not require electricity to operate. Cordless phones will not work when the power is out.

Flooding

Use extreme caution during flood emergencies and power outages. Electrical equipment impacted by flood water can be extremely dangerous. Get more information about electrical safety during floods

Homeowners

It is the homeowner’s responsibility to install and maintain smoke alarms on every story of their home and outside sleeping areas.

Landlords

It is the landlord’s responsibility to ensure their rental properties comply with the law.

Tenants

If you are a tenant of a rental property and do not have the required number of smoke alarms, contact your landlord immediately. It is against the law for tenants to remove the batteries or tamper with the alarm in any way.

Failure to comply with the Fire Code smoke alarm requirements can result in a $360 ticket or fine of up to $50,000 for individuals or $100,000 for corporations.

Smoke alarms are available with different features and applications, so choosing the right alarm can be confusing. Some of the features to consider include:

Power source

Smoke alarms can be powered electrically, by batteries or both. If you are installing an electrically powered alarm, we recommend that it have a battery backup in case of power failures.

Technology

Most smoke alarms employ either ionization or photo-electric technology. Ionization alarms may respond slightly faster to flaming-type fires. Photo-electric alarms may be quicker at detecting slow, smoldering fires. Consider having both types of alarms in your home. When purchasing smoke alarms, make sure they have the logo of a recognized standards testing agency, such as CSA or ULC, to ensure they meet Canadian performance standards.

Pause feature

Smoke alarms with a pause button are highly recommended. The pause feature permits the alarm to be temporarily silenced without disconnecting the power source.

Smoke alarms must be installed on each story of the home and outside sleeping areas. Because smoke rises, smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling. If this is not possible, install the alarm high up on a wall. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing smoke alarms.

Avoid putting smoke alarms too close to:

• bathrooms
• windows
• ceiling fans
• heating and cooking appliances

Test smoke alarms monthly

Test your smoke alarms every month by using the test button on the alarm. When the test button is pressed, the alarm should sound. If it fails to sound, make sure that the battery is installed correctly or install a new battery. If the alarm still fails to sound, replace the smoke alarm with a new one.

Change the batteries at least once a year

Install a new battery at least once a year, or as recommended by the manufacturer. Install a new battery if the low-battery warning sounds or if the alarm fails to sound when tested.

Vacuum alarms annually

Dust can clog your smoke alarms. Battery-powered smoke alarms should be cleaned by opening the cover of the alarm and gently vacuuming the inside with a soft bristle brush.

For electrically connected smoke alarms, first shut off the power to the unit, and then gently vacuum the outside vents of the alarm only. Turn the power back on and test the alarm.

Replace older smoke alarms

All smoke alarms wear out. Replace them every 10 years according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Check cleaning supplies. Look for leaking containers and dispose of what is no longer used or needed at a hazardous waste distribution centre.

Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Replace batteries and test.

Visually inspect electrical cords and outlets. Replace cords if worn or damaged. Contact a licensed electrical contractor to check loose-fi tting outlets.

Maintain air conditioner. Make an appointment with a qualifi ed technician to perform safe and proper maintenance work for your specifi c unit.

Clean eaves troughs thoroughly. Use a sturdy and reliable ladder and rubber gloves.

Clean and check BBQ. Clean burner ports and tubes and test for hose leaks with a 50/50 water/soap solution.

Store fuel and other combustibles outside. Keep them in a well-ventilated shed or detached garage and away from direct sunlight and other heat sources.

Check recreational equipment. Make sure all playground equipment, bikes, skateboards, etc. are in safe working condition for family use.

Call before you dig. Before starting a garden or outdoor home renovation, contact your local utility to quickly and easily get your underground utility lines marked to avoid pipeline damage.

USE BBQS OUTDOORS ONLY! They produce carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can lead to unconsciousness and even death. Never use or store propane cylinders inside any structure, including garages.

Take these steps when starting a BBQ:

• Open the hood.
• Turn on the gas release valve on the tank.
• Turn on the grill controls or heat settings.
• Take a step back.
• Push the igniter button.
• If there is no igniter button, insert a long match or BBQ lighter through the side burner hole first, then turn on the heat control knob.
• If the burner does not ignite right away, turn the gas off and wait five minutes, keeping the hood open, before repeating the procedure.

• Never leave the BBQ unattended when in use.
• Make sure grease does not build up on the burners or at the base of the BBQ. This could cause a grease fire.
• Never throw water on a grease fire – this will only spread the flame.
• DO NOT place the BBQ close to wooden fences or walls, vinyl siding, or anything that can burn. The area behind your BBQ must be free of anything that can ignite – this is where hot gases escape.
• Keep loose clothing away from a hot BBQ.
• Keep children and pets at least one metre (three feet) away from a hot BBQ.
• When finished barbecuing, turn the gas valve off first, then turn off the burner controls so no gas is left in the connecting hose.
• Allow the BBQ to cool completely before closing the cover.
• If you live in an apartment or condo building, check with the building owner or property manager, or the Condominium Act of your building, regarding the use of BBQs on your building’s balconies.

To minimize the risk of fire and burn injury while at the cottage, follow these fire safety tips:

• Install smoke alarms. It’s the law for all Ontario homes, cottages, cabins and seasonal homes to have working smoke alarms on every story and outside all sleeping areas.
• Install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in your cottage if it has a fuel-burning appliance.
• Test smoke and CO alarms at least monthly or each time you return to the cottage. Pack new alarms and batteries when going to the cottage in case they need to be replaced.
• Develop and practice a cottage fire escape plan to ensure everyone knows what to do if the smoke alarms sound.
• Know the telephone number for the local fire department and your cottage’s emergency sign number.
• Clean barbecues before using them. Keep an eye on lit barbecues and ensure all combustibles, as well as children and pets, are kept well away from them. Fires can happen when barbecues are left unattended.
• Keep barbecue lighters and matches out of sight and reach of children.
• Remember to bring a flashlight with extra batteries.
• Check heating appliances and chimneys before using them.
• Check with your local fire department, municipality, or the forest fires page to determine whether open-air burning is permitted before having a campfire or burning brush. If open burning is allowed, fires should be built on bare soil or exposed rock. Remove leaves and twigs from around the fire to keep it from spreading. Always keep a bucket of water, sand or even a shovel close by and supervise the fire at all times.
• Smoke outside. Keep a large can with water nearby so cigarette butts can be safely discarded.
• Drink responsibly. Tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption are contributing factors in many fires and can lead to serious injuries.
• Burn candles in sturdy candle holders that will not tip and are covered with a glass shade. When you go out, blow out!

When Transporting Cylinders:

• Ensure propane cylinders are upright and secure during transport.
• Keep cylinder valves closed and protected during transport.
• Plug or cap cylinder outlets during transport.

When Using Cylinders:

• Ensure cylinders are upright and secure on a firm footing.
• Check cylinder connections and hoses for leaks by brushing a 50/50 mix of liquid soap and water onto all connections and hoses. Rising bubbles when you turn on the valve indicate a leak. Tighten connections or repair the hose until there are no bubbles.
• Keep cylinders away from flame, heat, and exits.

Using Propane in your RV or Camper: 

• Keep all combustion exhaust vents on the exterior wall of your RV or camper clear of obstructions.
• Use stovetop burners or ovens only for cooking and not as a source of heat.
• Propane appliances require an adequate supply of fresh air for proper combustion. Ensure your RV or camper is properly ventilated to prevent build-up of carbon monoxide.
• Install a carbon monoxide alarm and propane leak detector.

Follow the tips below to make sure everyone stays safe while celebrating Halloween:

• Choose safer alternatives for lighting like battery-operated candles, flashlights, and glow sticks instead of candles in carved pumpkins and other Halloween decorations.
• Purchase labeled flame-resistant or flame-retardant costumes including wigs and props. When making costumes, choose materials that won’t easily ignite, avoid billowing or long-trailing features.
• Keep dried flowers, cornstalks and other decorations away from all open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters.
• Remember to keep exits clear of decorations to ensure nothing blocks your escape routes in the event of a fire.
• If hosting a party for the “ghosts and goblins” in your home, be sure that everyone knows your home fire escape plan in the event of a fire, and a meeting place outside your home.
• If children are going to Halloween parties at others’ homes, have them ask the host about their home fire escape plan so they can plan to get out safely in an emergency.
• Make sure that children know to “stop, drop and roll” if their clothing does catch fire.This means stopping immediately, dropping to the ground, covering your face with your hands, and rolling over and over to extinguish flames.
• Provide children with lightweight battery-operated flashlights or glowsticks to carry for lighting or as part of their costume.
• Extension cords are for temporary use only. Use the right one as there are special extension cords rated for outdoor use.
• Never overload electrical outlets with too many plugs – use an approved power bar.
• If you must use candles, never leave them unattended and keep them well away from children, pets, and anything that can burn.
• Teach children their home address and phone number and how to call 911 or their local emergency number in case of an emergency.

• To minimize the risk of fire and burn injury, the fire service does not recommend family fireworks or informal neighbourhood displays.
• The fire service recommends attending public fireworks displays hosted by your municipality or other responsible organization.
• If you still choose to have a family fireworks or informal neighbourhood display, check with your local fire department about regulations regarding fireworks. Here are some important safety tips to follow:
  • Appoint a responsible person to be in charge. Only adults who are aware of the hazards and essential safety precautions should handle and discharge fireworks.
  • Carefully read and follow the label directions on fireworks packaging.
  • Always keep a water hose or pail of water close by when discharging fireworks.
  • Discharge fireworks well away from combustible materials like buildings, trees and dry grass.
  • Keep onlookers a safe distance away, upwind from where fireworks are discharged.
  • Light only one firework at a time and only when they are on the ground. Never try to light a firework in your hand or re-light dud fireworks. For dud fireworks, it is best to wait 30 minutes and soak them in a bucket of water. Dispose of them in a metal container.
  • Discharge fireworks only if wind conditions do not create a safety hazard.
  • Keep sparklers away from children. Sparklers burn extremely hot and can ignite clothing, cause blindness and result in severe burns. As the sparkler wire remains hot for some minutes after burnout, immediately soak it in water to avoid injury.
  • If someone gets burned, run cool water over the wound for three to Cfive minutes and seek medical attention, if necessary.