SECURITY. The end of year holidays are an opportunity to celebrate, to bring together families and friends to enjoy memorable moments as well as holiday cheer. However, this time of year also comes with increased fire risks due to the widespread use of candles, fireplaces and other open flames in the home.
This year, the week of November 24 to 30 is National Fire Safety Week and the Canada Safety Council is encouraging Canadians to be aware of fire hazards so that the holiday season goes smoothly. in complete safety and joy.
Domestic fires
With dry trees, decorations and flammable materials, even a small open flame can quickly turn into a dangerous fire. According to Statistics Canada, open flames are one of the two main causes of fires in the home, after cooking appliances. Additionally, home fires caused three-quarters of the 202 fire-related deaths in Canada in 2021.
“A little caution doesn’t hurt,” said Gareth Jones, president and CEO of the Canada Safety Council. Taking the time to make open flames safe and adopting safe practices can prevent tragedies and allow families to have a safe holiday season.”
Tips for protecting your home from fire risks
Place candles in nonflammable holders and keep them away from combustible objects, including curtains and holiday decorations. Turn them off when you leave the room or before going to bed. You can also opt for battery-operated candles rather than traditional candles to reduce the risks involved while still enjoying an ambient glow.
Use a screen to contain sparks from your fireplace and never leave a fire unattended. Make sure the fire is completely extinguished before going to bed. If you use a wood-burning fireplace, it is also a good idea to have your chimney swept once a year, as creosote buildup is a common cause of chimney fires.
A dry Christmas tree can catch fire in seconds. Water it daily to reduce its flammability or consider using an artificial tree if you are unable to water it. Place it away from heat sources like fireplaces and space heaters.
Inspect your Christmas lights and check for frayed wires and broken bulbs. Avoid overloading electrical outlets, which can lead to fires, and make sure outdoor lights are weatherproof and rated for use outdoors.
Provide a fire extinguisher near areas with open flames, such as the kitchen or fireplace. Become familiar with its use and check it regularly.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Functional alarms are essential tools that save lives. Test them monthly, replace batteries if necessary, and make sure there is an alarm on every floor and outside every bedroom.
Children and pets are often attracted to open flames. It is therefore essential to monitor them closely. Set up a child-free area around fireplaces, stoves and candles to avoid accidental contact.
The Canada Safety Council wishes all Canadians a safe and happy holiday season, filled with warmth, celebration and the peace of mind that comes from a fire-free home. By taking a few extra safety measures, we can help everyone enjoy the season while preventing avoidable accidents.
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