Fire Safety in your Home: Our Hottest Tips for the Summer Season

As summer in Ontario approaches, now is the perfect time to ensure that your home is well-prepared for fire safety. 

With warmer temperatures, outdoor activities, and the potential for dry conditions, the risk of fire can rise in the summer. By taking proactive steps now, you can help protect your home from the dangers of fire. Here are Team vanRahan’s top 7 fire safety tips to keep in mind this summer.

For information about fire services in the County of Peterborough, click here and select your township. 

1. Check and Maintain Smoke Alarms

-Test smoke alarms monthly: Press the test button to ensure they are working correctly.

-Replace batteries regularly: At least once per year, or if the alarm starts chirping.

-Install alarms on every level: Place them inside bedrooms, outside sleeping areas, and in common areas. 

2. Install Smart Home Technology

-Smart smoke detectors: These devices not only detect smoke; but can also send alerts to your phone, ensuring you’re aware of a potential fire if you’re not home. 

-Smart plugs: These can turn off appliances remotely if you forget to do so, preventing potential fire hazards. 

-Water leak sensors: Placed near water heaters and under sinks, these sensors can detect leaks early, preventing water damage that could short-circuit electrical appliances and cause fires.

3. Be Mindful with Outdoor Activities 

-Grill safely: Keep grills at least 10 feet away from your house and deck railings. Never leave the grill unattended while in use. 

-Monitor Bonfires: If bonfires are allowed in your area, keep them small and always have a water source nearby to extinguish flames quickly. 

-Dispose of ashes properly: Allow ashes to cool completely before placing them in a metal container.

4. Manage Vegetation Around Your Home

-Trim back vegetation: Maintain a defensible space of at least 30 feet around your home by trimming trees and bushes. 

-Remove dead plants and leaves: Clear your yard of dead vegetation and other combustible materials.

5. Safe Use of Electrical Devices

-Avoid overloading outlets: Use power strips with surge protectors and avoid plugging too many devices into a single outlet.

-Inspect cords regularly: Check for frayed wires and replace damaged cords immediately.

-Keep flammable items away: Ensure that appliances and electronics are not in contact with curtains, furniture, or other flammable items. 

-Avoid charging overnight, and keep chargers in cool, well-ventilated areas.

6. Proper Storage of Flammable Materials

-Store in safe locations: Keep flammable materials in well-ventilated areas away from heat sources and out of children’s reach. 

-Use appropriate containers: Store liquids in their original containers with labels intact, or use approved safety containers.

7. Keep Your Roof and Gutters Clean

-Regular maintenance: Clean your roof and gutters regularly to remove leaves, pine needles, and other combustible materials. 

-Install gutter guards: These can help prevent debris buildup and reduce the need for frequent cleaning.

By following these fire safety tips; you can enjoy a safer and more relaxing summer. Remember, preparation and awareness are key to preventing fires and ensuring your home remains a safe haven during the summer months. Stay vigilant, and make fire safety a priority this season.