Make Fire Safety a Part of Holiday Weekend Plans

Tips from the Ontario Fire Marshal to Protect Your Family

TORONTO, May 19, 2016 /CNW/ - The Fire Marshal and Chief of Emergency Management of Ontario is urging Ontarians to include fire safety in their Victoria Day weekend plans as they prepare to head to cottage country. Here are simple tips to enjoy a safe holiday weekend:

• Install smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas of your cottage, cabin or seasonal home – it's the law in Ontario, just like for permanent residences.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms outside sleeping areas of your cottage, cabin or seasonal home if it has a fuel-burning appliance or attached garage.
• Test smoke alarms to ensure they are working to provide life-saving early detection and warning in your home away from home. Pack a new alarm and extra batteries in case they need replacement.
• Check with the local fire department, municipality, or the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry for any restrictions on burning in the area where you are vacationing.
• Use caution when having campfires or burning brush around cottages and camps. Keep a water supply and shovel close by to ensure fires are completely extinguished.
• Clean heating appliances and barbecues before using them. Keep an eye on your barbecue while cooking, and ensure all combustibles, children and pets are kept well away.
• Keep barbecue lighters and matches out of sight and reach of children.

QUOTES

"As we look towards the Victoria Day long weekend, and enjoying time outdoors with family and friends, we want to make sure everyone keeps fire safety in mind. These simple fire safety tips are easy to follow and ensure we each do our part to help Ontario's dedicated firefighters keep our communities safe for everyone this weekend and throughout the year."
- Yasir Naqvi
Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services

"The current fire situations in Alberta and parts of northern Ontario are powerful reminders of the devastating effects of fire. Test smoke alarms and replace batteries now, before the summer season and check heating appliances and chimneys before using them."
- Ross Nichols
Ontario Fire Marshal and Chief of Emergency Management

LEARN MORE

• Smoke alarm information
• Carbon monoxide information
• How to build a safe campfire

SOURCE Office of the Fire Marshal - Media Relations

Jude Kelly, Public Relations Officer (A), Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management, 647-329-1064