Public education

Smoke alarms

Tips for best smoke alarm use:

• when installing smoke alarms refer to the manufacturers instructions for best placement
• test your alarm monthly using the test button
• replace alarm batteries once a year or whenever you hear the low-battery chirp
• replace alarms within the time frame advised by the manufacturers, typically within 10 years

Carbon monoxide alarms

It is the law to have a carbon monoxide alarm if your home or garage has fuel-fire appliances such as a furnace, water heater, stove or fireplace. 

If so, working alarms are required on every sleeping level of the home.

If you hear the alarm sound, evacuate your home and call 911. Do not go back inside until firefighters have said it is safe to do so.

Tips for best use:

• get an annual inspection for all fuel-burning appliances in your home
• ensure that outside furnace vents are not blocked
• do not use portable fuel-burning appliances in enclosed spaces
• test alarm monthly using the test button
• replace alarm batteries once a year or whenever you hear the low-battery chirp
• replace alarms within the time frame advised by the manufacturers, typically within 10 years

For more information visit COsafety website.

Develop a home escape plan

Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you with less than two minutes to escape safely once a fire has started. It is important to know to do when the smoke alarm sounds.

1. develop a home fire escape plan - know what to do when the smoke alarm sounds
2. practise your escape plan
3. make sure everyone know two way out of each room, if possible
4. help those who need it - who will help children, older adults and anyone with a disability
5. get low and go - under the smoke and to the nearest safe exit
6. choose a meeting place outside - a safe distance from your home
7. get out, stay out - never re-enter a burning building

Kitchen and barbecue safety 

Leaving cooking unattended is the number one cause of home fires. The tips below will help reduce the risk of kitchen fires:

• stay in the kitchen when cooking, especially if using oil or cooking at high temperatures
• keep items such as cooking utensils, dishcloths, paper towels and pot holders away from heat
• keep children away from cooking areas and turn pot handles inwards
• do not wear loose fitting clothing as it is easier to catch fire - stop, drop and roll if your clothing catches fire
• enjoy a drink while eating the meal, not preparing the meal as many fatal fires occur when people are impaired

Barbecue safety:

• open the lid when lighting the barbecue with a match
• keep the barbecue away from combustible items and never keep it in a garage
• store propane cylinders in upright and well-ventilated areas
• check that the fitting that connects the barbecue hose is not cracked or bent
• propane cylinders must be recertified every 10 years