Fire Prevention Week in Ontario runs from October 6 until October 12. This year’s campaign focuses on making sure smoke alarms are functioning, and the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home.
It is no secret that the best way to survive a fire is to not have one in the first place, but that isn’t always the case.
Working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are the law in Ontario.
Goderich Fire Department Chief Jeff Wormington says that smoke alarms need to be installed on every level of the home and outside every sleeping area.
Detectors need to be tested monthly, and batteries replaced annually.
“Seconds count in an emergency, so early detection is the key to surviving a house fire,” explained Wormington.
It also helps to have a fire escape plan and practice the routine with the family, as this could allow everyone to get out safely.
“Do not re-enter the home for any reason,” stressed Wormington.
“If you are trapped and unable to escape a room, keep the doors closed and call 911 again, to let them know your location, and move to the closest window.”
Wormington further explained that a blanket or towel can be laid along the bottom of doors to prevent toxic smoke and gases from entering the room.
Stay low and under the smoke and heat if you do need to evacuate when conditions change.
At all times, but especially during Fire Prevention Week, Goderich Fire Department stresses how important it is to practice good fire safety, such as taking care when cooking or smoking.
If a fire does happen, having a working smoke alarm on every level of the home will help prevent further danger to those within the home.
Wormington stressed that it should never be assumed that it is a false alarm. Detectors are designed to detect deep-seated fires early that may not have any signs for the homeowner to see.
“Fires happen fast. You have three to four minutes to escape a house fire,” warned Wormington.
“Keep all exists clear of debris and furniture to allow for a quick exit. Don’t think it can’t happen to you.”
According to Wormington, kitchen fires are the leading cause of fires in the home. Never leave the kitchen unattended when cooking, never attempt to cook while under the influence, and should a fire on a stove occur, never use water to extinguish.
Wormington advises that, if possible, a lid should be placed over the pot, the burner turned off and 911 to be called.
If a lid is not possible, a wet towel can be used to attempt to smother the fire. If the fire is in the oven, keep the door closed and have a K Class fire extinguisher nearby.
Next to kitchen fires as the leading cause, lithium battery fires are becoming more common. The average household has 60-70 lithium-ion battery powered devices in the home.
Using off-brand chargers and cords that are not original for devices can cause batteries to overheat and cause fires.
Wormington suggests only using charging equipment that originally came with the device, to charge all devices on a cool, hard surface, and to never charges devices on couches or beds.
“If you live in an older home, have your electrical wiring inspected by a professional,” added Wormington.
“With colder weather around the corner, have your furnace and heating appliances serviced and inspected.”
Further advice includes ensuring chimney and stove pipes are clean and ready for the season, while keeping all furnace exhaust vents clear of snow and ice to prevent carbon monoxide from entering the home.
If you require the use of extension cords or power bars to power appliances or heating equipment, make sure to use the proper rated cords and do not overload circuits.
“Only you can prevent fires in your home,” added Wormington.
“Practice fire safety and educate everyone in the home.”
Goderich Fire Department encourages homeowners to develop and practice a home escape plan, so everyone knows what to do and where to go when an alarm sounds.
Some suggestions include drawing a floor plan of the home, include all possible emergency exits, mark two ways to get out of every room, understand who might need assistance due to age or capabilities, and choose a meeting place outside where a phone call can be made to the fire department.
According to Goderich Fire smoke alarms should be replaced at least every 10 years. The risk of dying in home structure fires is 55 per cent lower in homes with working smoke alarms than in homes with no alarms, or none that worked.
Goderich Fire Department consists of 28 professional men and women dedicated to serve and protect the community. They often leave their jobs and families for hours to perform their duties.
When not performing in emergencies, these members are training, delivering public education and fire prevention seminars to local schools, retirement homes and the community.
According to Wormington, new guidelines will not have all members certified to higher levels, which has increased their time committed to training.
“It is a lot of work for them, but they are dedicated and wanting to give their best to anyone involved in an emergency,” applauded Wormington.
“The communities they serve are in great hands.”
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