As the holiday season approaches, the Wrenford Fire Department is reminding residents to take simple steps to keep their homes safe from fire. With more candles, decorations, and cooking happening during the holidays, the risk of household fires goes up. Deputy Fire Chief Simon Hartley says, "A few minutes spent checking your smoke alarms and planning an escape route can make all the difference when every second counts."
Here are a few ways you can stay safe while you celebrate:
- Christmas trees: Choose a freshly cut tree that smells strong and holds its needles when you tap the trunk. Place it in a sturdy stand and water it every day. Keep it at least one metre away from heaters, fireplaces, and heat vents. Take the tree down within ten to fourteen days, or as soon as the needles start to dry out.
- Lighting and decorations: Only use lights that carry the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) certification mark. Check every string for cracked bulbs or frayed wires before you hang them. Keep decorations, curtains, and wrapping paper away from light strands and candles. Turn off all holiday lights before you go to bed or leave the house.
- Candles and fireplaces: Place candles on a stable, heat-proof surface and never leave a lit candle alone. If you use a fireplace or wood stove, have it inspected and cleaned by a professional each year. Keep stockings and garlands well away from the firebox.
- Kitchen safety: Most home fires start in the kitchen. Stay in the room while you cook on the stovetop. If a grease fire starts, slide a metal lid over the pan to smother the flames and turn off the heat. Never use water on a grease fire.
- Smoke alarms: Test every smoke alarm in your home this week. Make sure you have one in every bedroom and outside each sleeping area. Close your bedroom door at night to slow the spread of smoke and heat. Teach guests about your home's escape plan so everyone knows the fastest way out.
For more information on fire prevention, burn permits, and how to file a safety plan for a seasonal event, visit the Fire Rescue section of our website. You can also find detailed guidance on maintaining Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in your home.
If you have questions about holiday fire safety or need a copy of our emergency preparedness guide, contact the Fire Station 1 (Headquarters) fire prevention office at 519-555-0115 or email [email protected]. The office is located at 210 Water Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A6, and is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.