Each year in Ontario 100 people die and thousands are injured as a result of fire. Most of these victims were as a result of fires that were preventable.
Most people die in fires before the fire services arrive, even with a response time of less than five minutes.
The key to fire safety is to learn and practice the three lines of defence:
1. Fire Prevention
2. Detection
3. Escape
FIRE PREVENTION
Over 90% of residential fires are preventable. Understanding the causes of fire and practicing good fire safety habits can greatly reduce the chance of a fire ever starting.
Top causes of residential fires – with prevention tips:
· Cooking equipment – don’ leave stove tops unattended
· Heating equipment – check fireplaces, wood stoves, and chimneys annually
· Electrical distribution equipment – use only CSA or ULC certified equipment
· Lit smoker’s articles – don’t smoke while drowsy or impaired by alcohol or drugs
· Candles – don’t leave unattended, use sturdy holder away from objects and people
· Matches or lighters – keep away from children
DETECTION
If a fire starts, quick detection provides time to escape. Early detection could save lives. Every home is required to be equipped with a working smoke alarm on every storey. It’s the law!
Almost 50% of smoke alarms in homes do not work – product lifetime expectancy is ten years.
Smoke alarm (detector) tips:
· Test monthly
· Change batteries and vacuum annually
· Replace any detectors over ten years old
· Monitor with your security system
ESCAPE
In case of a fire, you may have less than one minute to escape.
Tips for planning your escape:
· Have an escape plan that everyone knows what to do and were to go in case of a fire
· Draw a floor plan showing all the rooms and exits
· If possible, have two ways out our each room
· Call 911 when you are at the safe meeting place
· Do not re-enter for any reason