Fire Prevention-Education

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide, also known as The Silent Killer. No colour, no odour, no taste.

Common sources of Carbon Monoxide:

• Furnace
• Water Heaters
• Dryers
• BBQ
• Stove
• Car
• Fuel Fired Fireplace
• Blocked Vents or Chimneys
• Portable Fuel Fired Generator

Ensure Carbon Monoxide detectors are installed outside all sleeping areas

For added protection, install a carbon monoxide alarm on every story of the home.

Know the sound of your carbon monoxide alarm:

• Your CO alarm sounds different than your smoke alarm. Test both alarms monthly and make sure everyone in your home knows the difference between the two alarm sounds.
• Don't be confused by the sound of your CO alarm's low-battery warning. Follow your CO alarm manufacturer's instructions so you know the difference between the low-battery warning, the “end-of-life” warning, and the alarm alerting you to the presence of CO in your home

Source: Office of the Fire Marshal 

Cooking Fire Safety

Cooking left unattended is a leading cause of home fires in Ontario.

• To prevent cooking fires you must be alert.
• Always stay in the kitchen while cooking
• Keep anything that burns a safe distance from the stove

Source: Office of the Fire Marshal

Fire Extinguishers

The best thing to do in a home fire is to get everyone out of the home immediately and call 911.

Considering purchasing a fire extinguisher with an ABC rating. This can be used for most types of fires. However there are 5 classes of Fire extinguishers;

• Class A - These extinguishers typically use water or certain types of dry chemicals to either absorb heat or coat the fire.
• Class B - This is the type of extinguisher you'll want to use on a fire caused by oil or fuel.
• Class C – These are effective against electrical fires from live wires, panels, and circuit breakers.
• Class D – These are used on combustible metals. These include magnesium, sodium, aluminum, and titanium.
• Class K - Commonly used in restaurant kitchens, class K fire extinguishers can effectively put out fires caused by cooking fats, greases, and oils. 

Smoke Alarms

Every home in Ontario must have a working smoke alarm on every story and outside all sleeping areas.

• When installing smoke alarms, refer to the manufacturer's instructions for information about correct
•  placement.
• Test your smoke alarm every month using the test button.
• Replace smoke alarm batteries at least once a year, and whenever the low battery warning chirps
• Smoke alarms don't last forever. They are required to be replaced within the time frame indicated by the manufacturer. This is usually ten years.