The Collingwood Fire Department wants to make sure you enjoy your spring and summer. Fire Prevention Officer Carl Prochilo offered the following tips to help keep you and your family safe during the warm seasons.
In the House
Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, change batteries immediately if needed.
Check your fire extinguishers. Make sure the pressure gauge is in the green.
If you have to use an extinguisher, remember the acronym PASS
- Pull the pin from the fire extinguisher
- Aim it toward the base of the flames
- Squeeze the handle
- Sweep the fire extinguisher from side to side across the base of the flames until they are out.
Check for overloaded or damaged extension cords, replace where needed.
Ensure you have an emergency preparedness kit in case of incidents such as power outages and flooding. You should be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for a minimum of 72 hours.
Practise your family's fire escape plan so everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.
Windows should be checked to ensure they open and close properly, in case they are needed as an exit.
Properly store household chemicals and never mix cleaning agents.
Recycle: Get rid of old newspapers, magazines, and junk mail. These items tend to pile up and can greatly contribute to the severity and spread of fire.
Check and clean filters above the stove.
Pull the refrigerator out and vacuum or dust the coils.
Always keep stairs and landings clear for safe evacuation in event of an emergency.
Around the house
Make sure your address numbers are up and visible from the street.
Maintain a clear 'fire zone' of 10 feet (three metres) around structures.
Check outdoor electrical outlets and other electrical appliances for animal nests and to ensure proper wiring.
Keep 100 feet (35 metres) of garden hose with an attached nozzle connected and ready for use.
Remove leaves and trash from carports and garages. Combustible materials are dangerous if they are exposed to heated automobile components, especially under the vehicle.
Clean up and properly store paints, pool and yard chemicals.
Check fuel containers for leaks and make sure they are properly stored.
Let power equipment sit for approximately 30 minutes before placing it inside to be sure there is no possibility of fire.
Collingwood bylaws require a permit for all open air burning, including backyard fires in containers. Always check with your local fire department for questions, instructions and permits.
BBQ Tips
All barbecue grills must only be used outdoors — using grills indoors or in enclosed spaces is not only a fire hazard, but it exposes occupants to toxic gasses and potential asphyxiation.
Place your grill away from your home. Always position the grill well away from combustible objects — buildings, fences, deck railings, out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
Be sure to keep your grill at least 10 feet (3 metres) from your home or other structures.
Get your grill cleaned and serviced. Check all propane tanks and lines for leaks and damage.
Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
Never leave a lit grill unattended.
Keep children and pets at least three feet (one metre) away from grill area.
Always use long-handled grilling utensils and heat-resistant oven mitts to avoid exposure burns from heat and flames.
Periodically remove grease build-up in catch trays to prevent it from igniting.
Keep a garden hose nearby, connected and ready for use in case of a fire.
The Collingwood Fire Dept wants to ensure you and your family have an enjoyable and safe summer. For more fire safety tips, contact the Collingwood Fire Dept., Fire Prevention Division at 705-445-3920. Play Safe, Be Safe!
You can also catch the local fire prevention team at the Collingwood Farmer's Market. Follow the town's Facebook page for advance notice.
