Fire Safety Tips

Every 15 seconds, a fire department responds to a fire somewhere in Canada.The major causes of fire deaths are smoking materials, heating, arson and children playing with matches and lighters. By paying careful attention to these issues, each of us can share the responsibility of keeping our homes and businesses safe from fire.

• Every building should have an emergency plan that outlines fire response and evacuation routes, prevention tips, drills and other related training.
• Extension cords can be dangerous. Never run them under carpets, or anywhere they can be pinched under or behind furniture.
• Avoid overloading electrical sockets and plugging extension cords together.
• Keep all electrical appliances away from anything that can catch fire.
• Pay attention to housekeeping issues. Try not to clutter exits, stairways, and storage areas with waste paper, empty boxes, and other fire hazards.
• Designate smoking areas away from combustible pathways. Where smoking is permitted, provide non-combustible receptacles for cigarette ends as distinct from containers for waste.
• Arson is the largest single cause of fires in general office buildings. Keep a watch out for fire hazards and report any concerns to authorities.
• If you see a fire hazard or have concerns, share them with building management.