With a sharp drop in temperatures forecast for this week, Fire Chief Darren MacAulay is urging Wrenford residents to take simple precautions before the cold settles in. Heating emergencies tend to rise during the first major cold snaps, and a few minutes of preparation can keep homes and families safe.
When using portable space heaters, plug them directly into a wall outlet. Avoid power strips and extension cords, which can overheat easily. Always choose a model that carries a current safety certification and features an automatic shut-off switch. Keep flammable items like blankets, papers, and furniture at least one metre away from the unit. Turn the heater off whenever you leave the room or go to sleep.
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are your first line of defence. Make sure you have a working detector on every level of your home and outside each sleeping area. Press the test button once a month, and replace the batteries annually. If an alarm sounds, treat it as an emergency and leave the building immediately.
Frozen pipes can burst and cause costly water damage. To lower the risk, insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages. Keep interior cabinet doors open under sinks to let warm air reach the plumbing. Maintain your thermostat at a minimum of 15°C while you are home, and let cold water drip slightly from the farthest faucet during the coldest hours. Do not use an oven or stove to warm your house.
For more details on winter readiness, visit Emergency preparedness and planning and Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. If you need help preparing your home, contact Fire Station 1 (Headquarters) at 519-555-0115 or check Emergency preparedness for seniors for additional guidance.
"Taking these straightforward steps takes only a few minutes, but they make a huge difference in keeping our community safe during the coldest days of the year," says Chief MacAulay.