Keep BBQs at least 3 meters from structures, never leave them unattended, and ensure they’re fully cooled before storing. For propane BBQs, check for gas leaks annually and always open the lid before lighting. 

Never leave burning candles unattended, keep them away from flammable objects, and extinguish them when leaving the room or going to sleep. Use sturdy holders and keep candles out of reach of children and pets. 

Unattended cooking is the number one cause of fires in the home. Stay in the kitchen while cooking, keep combustible items away from the stovetop, and turn off appliances when finished. Have a fire extinguisher nearby and never throw water on a grease fire. 

Avoid overloading outlets, use extension cords temporarily only, and replace damaged cords immediately. Plug major appliances directly into wall outlets and keep lamps away from combustible materials. 

Draw a map of your home with your family. Practice your plan twice a year, once during the day and once at night, using different ways out. The first way out should be using the door and the second way through a window if the room has one. If you see smoke on your way out the door, use the window. If there is no window or other exit, get low and move under the smoke. Make sure everyone knows where to meet outside. This could be a tree, telephone pole or a neighbour’s home. For more information on home escape planning visit NFPA’s home escape planning page. 

Fireworks including family fireworks and display fireworks are regulated by Bylaw #50 of 2020. 

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to go to a public display hosted by trained and certified professionals. 

If you choose to have a family or an informal neighbourhood fireworks display, check out these tips: 

• Only adults should handle and set off fireworks 
• Only use safety-certified fireworks sold by a trusted source 
• Choose a clear, open space, away from buildings, overhead wires and tree branches 
• Wear glasses and gloves when handling fireworks 
• Keep a water hose and/or bucket of water close by 
• Light only one firework at a time 
• Never hold a lit firework in your hand 
• Attempting to re-light a “dud” or defective firework is dangerous, can quickly backfire and result in severe burns 
• After the fireworks display, keep children away from used fireworks in case they are still active. 

Lithium-ion batteries power many kinds of everyday devices, including smartphones, laptops, e-scooters, e-bikes, e-cigarettes, power tools, and toys. Because batteries store a large amount of energy in a small amount of space, they can pose a potential fire hazard if not used properly. 

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.  
• Use only the battery that is designed for the device.  
• Install batteries in the device correctly.  
• Use only the charging cord provided by the same manufacturer. 
• Do not charge a device on/under your pillow, bed, couch, or other combustible materials.  
• Charge your devices on a hard surface. 
• Do not charge/store transportation devices close to or in your means of egress/exit routes. 
• Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged.  
• Keep batteries at room temperature when possible. Do not charge them at temperatures below 0°C (32°F) or above 40°C (105°F). Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire. 

Follow these fire safety tips: 

• Buy only safety certified stoves and have the stove professional installed. 
• Learn about the installation, care and safety before using the woodstove. 
• Install a proper chimney for your stove to the outside. 

You should hire a professional technician to install your stove and chimney and to inspect them annually. 

Check with the Building Department and obtain the necessary permits prior to installing a wood stove, fireplace insert, or chimney. 

Keep heaters at least 3 feet from flammable objects, plug them directly into wall outlets, and turn them off when leaving the room or going to sleep. Choose models with automatic shut-off features. 

Careless smoking is the number one cause of fatal fires. Smoke outside, use deep ashtrays, and ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished. Never smoke in bed or when drowsy, and keep lighters and matches out of children’s reach 

People, animals, and property are in danger when fire breaks out on the farm. Inspect your barn and outbuildings for fire hazards and have a fire safety plan to reduce the risk of tragic loss. 

Barn Fire Safety Checklist (courtesy of the NFPA): 

• Required safety equipment – fire extinguishers, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, etc. – are present and in good working order. 
• Heat lamps and space heaters are kept a safe distance from anything that can burn. 
• Heaters are on a sturdy surface and cannot fall over. 
• Electrical equipment is labeled for agricultural or commercial use. 
• All wiring is free from damage. 
• Extension cords are not used in the barn. 
• Lightbulbs have covers to protect them from dust, moisture, and breakage. 
• Damage is identified quickly, and repairs are completed with safety in mind. 
• Dust and cobwebs around electrical outlets and lights are removed. 
• Oily rags are stored in a closed, metal container away from heat. 
• Feed, hay, straw, and flammable liquids are stored away from the main barn. 
• The barn is a smoke-free zone. 
• Exits are clearly marked, and pathways are clear. 
• Fire drills are held frequently with everyone who uses the barn. 
• Workers are trained to use fire extinguishers. 
• Everyone in the barn knows personal safety is the first priority if a fire breaks out. 
• Hazard checks take place on a set schedule. 

For more information visit: 

• Ten Ways to Reduce the Risk of Barn Fire (Government of Ontario) 
• Reducing the Risk of Fire on your Farm (Government of Ontario) 
• Barn Fire Prevention (Equine Research, University of Guelph)