Press Release
The Ontario Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council last week released its list of top tips for holiday fire and carbon monoxide safety.
The “12 Days of Holiday Fire Safety” campaign is a compilation of what the council says—based on its unique insights—are the things homeowners need to be extra vigilant about at this time of year.
A focal point of the campaign is television and radio public service announcements, featuring Ontario Fire Marshal Ted Wieclawek in his role as council chair.
According to the council, it’s the small things that can make a big difference in saving lives.
“Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, never tamper with them, change batteries, replace smoke alarms every 10 years and CO alarms every seven years.
“All these messages and others can never be stated too often,” Wieclawek stressed.
As well, the council is introducing a limited edition Christmas ornament that features the image of beloved fire dog, “Sparky.”
“We want the ‘Sparky’ ball to be a symbol of holiday fire and carbon monoxide safety,” Wieclawek said. “And the PSAs should make the public sit up and take notice.
“These reminders from the council and its partners will make Ontario families safer,” he noted.
The “12 Days of Holiday Fire Safety” provides tips against seasonal risks, as well as year-round precautions.
“It’s important to take precautions with the things we enjoy most about the festive season, such as candles, holiday lights, and cooking, because they increase the risk of home fires,” said Carol Heller, a home safety specialist with Kidde Canada and partner to the council.
“The drop in temperature is also a contributor to the increased incidence of carbon monoxide exposure,” she added.
The web site www.safeathome.ca offers complete descriptions of the “12 Days of Holiday Fire Safety,” as well as additional fire and CO safety tips.
Plus, visitors have the chance to win a coveted “Sparky” ball and Kidde Canada fire safety products.
•Day 1—Water fresh trees daily;
•Day 2—Check all light sets before decorating;
•Day 3—Make sure you have working smoke alarms, replace after 10 years;
•Day 4—Make sure you have working CO alarms, replace every seven years;
•Day 5—Make sure everyone knows how to get out safely if there is a fire;
•Day 6—Use extension cords wisely—never run them under rugs;
•Day 7—Give space heaters space;
•Day 8—When you go out, blow out!;
•Day 9—Keep matches and lighters out of sight and reach of children;
•Day 10—Watch what you heat (always stay in the kitchen while cooking);
•Day 11—Encourage smokers to smoke outside (careless smoking is fatal); and
•Day 12—There’s more to responsible drinking than taking a cab home.
