Fire Safety Tips from 4 CDSB Garrison Fire Department for the Christmas Season

Submitted | December 3, 2020 | Local
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To ensure a Merry Christmas and a fire safe Holiday Season the staff of the Garrison Fire Department are suggesting the following fire safety guidelines:

  • When cooking have a lid nearby to smother the flames
  • Use a fire extinguisher which is highly recommended to purchase
  • Never throw water on a grease fire

Choose the Perfect Tree and Keep it Safe

  • Place the tree in a stand that will hold two to three litres of water and top it up daily. If water drops below the trunk, the stem may reseal itself, requiring a fresh cut
  • Do not set up your tree near a heat source such as a heating duct, fireplace, television or sunny window

Think Safe When Choosing Decorations and Lighting

  • Choose decorations that are flame-retardant, non-combustible and non-conductive
  • Use Canadian Standards Association (CSA) certified light strings/sets. • Use the proper lights for the environment. Indoor light strings/sets should not be used outdoors because they lack weatherproof connections. Some outdoor light strings/sets burn too hot indoors

Use Common Sense when using Candles

  • Never leave burning candles unattended
  • Put candles in sturdy holders on a stable surface, well away from drafts, curtains, children and pets
  • Snuff them out before leaving the room or going to sleep

Never Overload Electrical Outlets

  • Inspect all cords before using. Make sure they are CSA certified. Look for loose connections or frayed or exposed wire. Discard any defective cords
  • Insert plugs fully into outlets. Poor contact may cause overheating or shock
  • To avoid possible overheating, do not coil or bunch an extension cord which is in use and do not run it under carpets or rugs

Going away for the Holidays

  • Have someone check on your home every two days to ensure all is ok and Insurance companies may not pay damage claims if a house has been uninhabited for more than 2 days
  • If you leave vehicles plugged in, use a timer to cycle every couple of hours so as not to overload plugs and hopefully prevent fires from overheated cords or have someone start vehicle periodically

Last but not least… please ensure you have working Smoke/CO Alarms.

IT IS NOW THE LAW!