Expert tips on home fire prevention

Home fire prevention is very important. According to Fire Prevention Canada, approximately eight Canadians die each week in a fire; 73 per cent of these deaths occur in residential fires. Here are some safety tips to help you prevent any such kind of accident in your home.

Home fire prevention starts with the right equipment.

• Install at least one smoke detector on each floor and in each bedroom. Check on a regular basis to make sure they’re working properly. Replace the batteries annually and change your smoke alarms according to the manufacturer’s recommendations; it’s usually suggested for every 10 years.

• A carbon monoxide detector should be installed on every floor, especially in the room above an attached garage, as well as next to the garage door.

• A portable fire extinguisher can play a key role in the event of a small fire. One should be readily available near the kitchen and an exit. They should be kept in view, but out of the reach of children.

Candles are one of the leading causes of residential fires, especially during the Christmas holidays. To avoid a fire, keep these tips in mind:

• Place candles on a stable surface, away from plants, drapes, books and other flammable objects.

• Make sure candles are always out of reach of children and pets.

• Avoid placing candles in places where there is heavy traffic and where they could be knocked over by a draft.

• Extinguish candles when you leave a room. Never leave a burning candle unattended.

Home fire prevention also means staying alert in the kitchen at all times.

• Always keep an eye on the food you’re cooking.

• Use a deep fryer for frying instead of a pan.

• Have on hand a lid large enough to fully cover your pot.

• Switch off all cooking appliances when you leave the kitchen.

• Clean the stove and hood regularly, as grease can accumulate and increase the risk of fire.

• Never attempt to extinguish a cooking fire with water. Use a pot lid or a fire extinguisher.

While home fire prevention helps reduce the risks, no one is immune to fire. So be sure that your insurance provides good protection, just in case. Lastly, be careful if you smoke or if you heat with wood, and always use care when handling hazardous household products. Most important of all, draw up an emergency escape plan and practice it every year with all family members.