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Emergency Preparedness Week 2025
Its Emergency Preparedness Week and North Bay Fire wants to remind you to plan for every season. In the event of an emergency stay informed.
Include a portable radio with extra batteries or a crank radio in your emergency kit to listen to local news channels for important updates. You may not have access to other sources due to power outages.
Make a plan, keep in mind that your family may not be together at the time of an emergency. Consider what you would do if you had to quickly evacuate your home or shelter in place for days without electricity or water.
Build a 72-hour emergency kit to have on hand with enough supplies for everyone in your home, including pets. Your kit should include nonperishable food, bottled water, medications, blankets, flashlights and batteries. Don’t forget a can opener.
No matter the emergency, serve storms, flooding or wildfires, the steps for being prepared are the same. Visit getprepared.ca for more details.
Please also check out the Emergency Preparedness Tab on our website
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Lithium-ion Batteries
Don’t make these common mistakes when using and charging lithium-ion batteries
North Bay Fire and Emergency services offers these tips to keep you safeChances are there’s a lithium-ion battery you use on a daily basis, you might just not realize it. These types of batteries are common in everyday life, but lithium-ion batteries can also pose a hazard if not cared for properly.
With the rising use of lithium-ion batteries in everyday household items becoming more popular, North Bay Fire and Emergency Services offers these tips and advice to keep your home and your family safe.
Lithium-ion batteries differ compared to your typical alkaline AA, AAA or 9-volt batteries in that lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable and produce their own energy. Because of this, lithium-ion batteries pose a much greater fire risk.
Lithium-ion batteries can burn quickly and violently, often producing thick, black smoke within just a few seconds. Unlike other fires, these can burn at temperatures of over 1,000 degrees Celsius. That makes these fires difficult to extinguish, and in some cases, may require dry powder agents to put the fire out.
Common household uses for lithium-ion batteries
Many common devices, including scooters, e-bikes, vape pens, cordless vacuums, electric toothbrushes, children's toys, and power tools use these types of batteries. These products can be helpful around the home, but if used improperly, they could do more harm than good.
“Educating the public about the risks of lithium-ion batteries is very important and can minimize injuries or property damage caused by a fire,” said Chris Nichol, Fire Prevention Officer with North Bay Fire and Emergency Services. “These things are great to have, but if used improperly, these batteries can become very hazardous and unsafe.”
The lifespan of a lithium-ion battery varies and can span from anywhere to two to ten years. Battery life is also affected by the number of times it's charged and by outside factors such as temperature.
Tips to safeguard yourself from lithium-ion battery dangers
So how can you keep your home and your family safe? First and foremost, always read the manufacturer’s instructions. This will indicate how long you should charge an item and will caution against what not to do with your batteries.
“Whatever it is you’re using, always check the manufacturer’s instructions,” FPO Nichol said. “People always throw that stuff out, but you can go on Google and find that information online. Knowing what you own and how you’re using it can reduce fires and also extend the life of the battery.”
Although it might be tempting to order a cheaper off-brand replacement battery online, you should always stick with the original manufacturer’s battery to go along with the product. These batteries are designed to fit and operate in your device, while off-brand batteries might not meet the required specifications.
It is always best practice to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to installation, maintenance and use, safe charging practices and decommissioning when it comes to any device, especially one that is powered by lithium-ion batteries.
North Bay Fire and Emergency Services suggests only charging these devices when you are present, alert and never leave them in your path of exiting if needed. When a fire or explosion happens, you want a clear path to exit the room or area without having to go through or near smoke and the fire.
Lithium-ion batteries should also be disposed in a proper manner. These can be dropped off at an approved facility like the North Bay Household Hazardous Waste Depot, located at 112 Patton Street, North Bay. They are open Wednesdays through Saturdays from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.
In the event of a fire, exit the area immediately and call 911
If a lithium-ion battery catches fire in your home, North Bay Fire and Emergency Services advises homeowners to get out of the area as soon as possible and call 911.
“If a fire were to occur in your presence, you are going to immediately notify anyone in that room or area to quickly evacuate at the nearest exit, ensuring to completely close the door behind them. Closing the door will contain the smoke and fire to that original room or area and not spread to other parts that may be an exit path for you and other occupants,” FPO Nichol said.
“You want to leave the building immediately, call 911 and stay outside until fire crews arrive. If your building is equipped with a fire alarm system, activate a pull station on your way out to notify the rest of the building occupants of the fire situation.”
To learn more about the potential dangers of lithium-ion batteries and best practices to follow for these batteries, contact North Bay Fire and Emergency Services at 705-474-5662
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May 2025
Emergency Preparedness Week
🎒💧 Calling all superheroes! It's Emergency Preparedness Week! Time to assemble your power
kit with water, non-perishable snacks, and first-aid goodies. What's your must-have item?📝🏠 Family meeting time! Let's plan our superhero rendezvous spots for emergencies. One in
the neighborhood, one out. Where's your family's secret hideout?🔌💨💧 Become a home utility ninja! Learn to shut off electricity, gas, and water like a pro. It's
your secret weapon in emergencies. Share your shut-off valve selfie!🎉🛠️ Gather your loved ones and create your very own emergency kit together! Set a timer and
see who can pack the most essential items in 5 minutes. Share your kit selfies and tag us! Let’s
make preparedness a family affair!📱🚨 Stay in the loop to stay safe! Sign up for local emergency alerts. It's like having a personal
safety DJ keeping you informed. What's your go-to alert app?☎️ 📞 Time for a contact list glow-up! Update those emergency numbers and make sure
everyone's got a copy. Who's your "In Case of Zombie Apocalypse" person?📄💼 Give your insurance policy some love! Make sure you're covered for everything from floods
to alien invasions (okay, maybe not aliens). What's the weirdest thing your policy covers?
#InsuranceCheck -
April 2025
Spring Cleaning Fire Safety
Spring cleaning time! Clear clutter from exits and stairs to ensure a quick escape in case of fire. 🧹🚪
While dusting, check that your smoke alarms are free from cobwebs and dust for optimal performance. 🕷️🚨
Cleaning out the garage? Store flammable liquids in approved containers away from heat sources. 🛢️🔥
Don't forget to clean your dryer lint trap and vent - it's a common cause of house fires! 👕🔥
Inspect all electrical cords for fraying or damage during your spring clean. Replace any that look worn. 🔌⚡
Clean your stove and oven thoroughly to prevent grease buildup - a major fire hazard. 🍳✨
After spring cleaning, test all smoke alarms to ensure they're working properly. Safety first! 🔔✅
Dryer Fire Safety
🧺 Did you know? Failing to clean your dryer lint filter after every load can lead to a fire! Make it a habit and keep your home safe. A few seconds can save lives! #DryerSafety #FirePrevention🔍 Check your dryer vent! A clogged vent can cause overheating and fires. Clean it out regularly and consider having it professionally inspected once a year. Stay safe! #LintTrap #HomeSafety
🔥 Never leave your dryer running unattended! If you’re stepping out, turn it off first. Your laundry can wait, but your safety can’t! #SafetyFirst #DryerFireAwareness
🚫 Avoid overloading your dryer! It can cause overheating and increase the risk of fire. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for load sizes to keep things safe! #LaundryTips #FireSafety
🧼 Use dryer sheets wisely! They can leave residue that builds up in your lint trap. Make sure to clean it regularly to prevent fires. Safety is in the details! #DryerMaintenance #FirePrevention
📅 Schedule a regular dryer maintenance check! Inspect hoses for wear and tear, and replace them if necessary. A little upkeep goes a long way in fire prevention! #HomeCare #DryerSafety
🚨 Have a fire escape plan! In case of a dryer fire, know how to get out safely and where to meet outside. Practice makes perfect—make it a family activity! #FireEscapePlan #SafetyMattersSpringKitchen Fire Safety
👨 🍳🍳 Cooking up something delicious? Never leave it unattended! Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling. Your culinary masterpiece deserves your full attention – and so does your safety!
🧤🔥 Keep your kitchen safe and stylish! Store flammable items like oven mitts and wooden utensils away from the stovetop. Let’s keep the flames where they belong—under control!
🍳🚫💧 Grease fire emergency? Slide a lid over the pan and turn off the burner—never use water! You’ll be the hero of your kitchen with this quick move!
🧯👍 Be a kitchen safety champ! Keep a fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it. A little preparation can make a big difference in an emergency!
👚🔥 Cooking fashion tip: Avoid loose-fitting clothing while whipping up your favorite dishes. Stay stylish and safe—let’s keep those flames at bay!
🧼🔥 Give your oven some TLC! Regular cleaning helps prevent grease buildup and keeps potential fires at bay. A clean oven is a happy oven!
👧👦🚫 Create a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and hot food prep areas. Safety first means peace of mind for everyone in the kitchen!
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March 2025
Essential Safety Tips for Apartment and Condo Residents
🏢 High-rise dwellers! Know your escape routes. Find at least two ways out from every room in your apartment. Practice in the dark - you might need to escape that way! #HighRiseSafety#EscapePlan
🚪 Fire doors save lives! Never prop them open or block them. They're designed to slow fire spread, giving you precious escape time. Keep them closed and clear! #FireSafety#ApartmentLiving
Fire in your building? Forget the elevator! Always use the stairs to escape. Elevators may be unavailable, get called to the ground floor, or stop on fire-affected floors. Stairs are your lifeline!#SafetyFirst #HighRiseHacks
🚨 Hear that alarm? Act fast! Every second counts in a high-rise fire. Don't wait to see what others do - start your escape immediately. Your quick action could save your life! #FireAlarm#QuickResponse
🔑 Know your building's crossover floors. These unlocked levels let you switch stairwells if needed. It could be your backup escape route! #HighRiseTips #FireEscape
🚒 In a high-rise fire and can't escape? Close your door, stuff towels in cracks, and call 911.Open a window slightly and signal for help. Firefighters will find you! #StaySafe #FireRescue
🏠 Your condo, your responsibility! Install smoke alarms, test them monthly, and replace batteries yearly. Early warning is crucial in high-rise fires. #SmokeSavesLives #ApartmentSafety
Daylight Saving Fire Safety !!
⏰🌼 Spring forward safely! As you set your clocks ahead, don’t forget to change those smoke
alarm batteries too! Let’s keep the spring vibes bright and safe! #DaylightSavings #SpringIntoSafety🔋🌷New season, new batteries! Give your safety devices some love this spring. A little power boost goes a long way in keeping your home safe! #BatteryCheck #SpringSafety
🌞🚪Daylight saving is the perfect time to refresh your home fire escape plan! Gather the family and practice your escape routes—safety can be a fun family activity! #SafetySpringForward
#FamilyFun🌅🏡Longer days are here! Use that extra daylight to check your home's exterior for fire hazards. Let’s keep our homes beautiful and safe this spring! #OutdoorSafety #SpringCleaning
💖 Don’t forget about your CO alarms when changing batteries! They need some love too. Keep your home safe and sound—because every device deserves a little TLC! #COSafety
#SafetyFirstLucky and Secure: Your Guide to Fire Safety This St. Patrick's Day
🍀✨ Going green for St. Patrick's Day? Let’s keep it safe in the kitchen! Always stay close while cooking—don’t let your feast turn into a fire hazard! #StPatricksSafety #CookWithCare
🍀🔥 The luck of the Irish won’t save you from a fire! But working smoke alarms will! Give yours a quick check today—safety is the best charm! #LuckySafety #SmokeAlarmCheck
🎉🍀 Planning a St. Patrick's bash? Keep those festive decorations away from heat sources! Let’s celebrate safely and keep the fun going all night long! #SafeCelebration #PartySmart
👩 🍳🍻 Designate a sober chef for your St. Patrick's feast! Safety first, then let the shenanigans begin! Keep the kitchen fun and fire-free! #SafeCooking #ShenanigansApproved
🚒🍀 Don’t just rely on the luck o' the Irish! Be prepared with a fire extinguisher in case of kitchen mishaps. Stay safe and enjoy your celebrations! #PreparedNotLucky #FireSafetyFirstWeek
Stay Safe While You Power Up: Lithium Battery Fire Safety Essentials🔋
🔋 Let's get charged up about keeping our gadgets (and ourselves) safe! Remember: Choose certified products, Handle with care, Always stay alert, Recycle properly, Get out if there's fire, and Educate others! 🔥🚫 #CHARGEintoBatterySafety
🛒 Shopping for new gadgets? Look for the seal of approval! Certified products are like VIP passes to safety. Don't let uncertified bargains crash your party! 🏆 ✅ #ChargedForLife #BatterySafety
🤗 Show your batteries some love! Use the right charger, keep them cool, and never leave them charging overnight. Treat them right, and they'll return the favor! 💕 🔌 #HandleWithCare #BatteryLove
👀 Be a battery detective! Watch for swelling, strange noises, or funky smells. If something seems off, it's time to say goodbye to that battery. Better safe than sorry!
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February 2025
Burn Awareness 🔥
🔥✨ It’s Burn Awareness Week! Let’s kick off with a reminder: keep flammable items away from heat sources. Safety starts at home! #BurnAwareness #SafetyFirst
🚫💧 Scalds can happen in an instant! Always test your bath water before jumping in, especially for little ones. Stay safe and enjoy the warmth! #ScaldPrevention #BurnSafety
🍳🔥 Cooking is the leading cause of home burns! Never leave food unattended on the stove. Keep your kitchen safe and your meals delicious! #CookingSafety #BurnAwareness
🛠️💡 Check your electrical cords! Frayed or damaged cords can spark fires. Inspect them regularly to keep your home safe this winter! #ElectricalSafety #BurnPrevention
🚒📚 Educate yourself and your family about burn first aid! Cool the burn with water, cover it, and seek help if needed. Knowledge is power! #BurnFirstAid #StayInformed
🎉👶 Kids are curious! Keep matches, lighters, and flammable liquids out of reach. Teach them about fire safety early to prevent accidents later! #FireSafetyForKids #BurnAwareness
🌟🏠 Make a fire escape plan with your family! Practice it together so everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency. Safety is a family affair! #FireEscapePlan #FamilySafety
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January 2025
Winter Fire Safety ❄️
It's cold outside! ❄️ Remember to keep portable heaters away from curtains and furniture.#WinterFireSafety
Fireplace season is here! Always use a screen to catch flying sparks. #CozyAndSafe
Thawing pipes? Never use an open flame. Use a hair dryer or heating pad instead.#SafeThawing
Layer up, not your outlets! Avoid overloading electrical sockets with winter appliances.#ElectricalSafetyIce and snow on your roof? Clear it safely to prevent damage and potential fire hazards.#WinterMaintenance
❄️🚫 Don’t let snow block your dryer and exhaust vents this winter! Clearing them helps prevent dangerous carbon monoxide buildup. Stay cozy and safe—make it part of your winter routine!#WinterSafety #COAwareness #BreatheEasy
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12 days of holidays safety
Each day, for 12 days leading up to Christmas, we'll be sharing a safety tip and giving you an opportunity to win a daily prize package retail valued at $95.00. Please listen to the radio for your chance to win.
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December Education
General Holiday safety tips
- Keep any entry/exits in your home cleared from snow.
- Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms before gatherings.
- Keep candles up and away from children and pets and never left unattended
- Have heating equipment, chimneys and furnace/boiler vents cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
Cooking
- Unattended cooking is the number one cause of home fires in Ontario
- Be attentive. If you are drowsy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove, oven, barbeque or any other cooking appliance.
- Ensure you are checking your cooking food regularly. Use a timer to remind yourself to check.
- Keep any flammable objects such as wooden utensils, food packaging, or towels off of and away from your stovetop.
Christmas Trees & Holiday Lightings
- Keep live trees watered and check the stand reservoir daily to ensure the tree does not dry out too quickly. Pick an area away from any fireplaces or baseboard/water radiators
- Always use CSA and/or UL approved lights, extension cords and power bars/surge protectors
- Ensure you do not overload any extension cords, power bars or outlet adapters. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions
- Make sure to turn off all lights before leaving the house, when you go to bed or when you will not be in the room for an extended period of time.
- Plug outdoor lights and decorations into ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) or outlets protected by a GFCI.
Check out the link below to see an article on our Fire Department and Enbridge Gas pairing up this holiday season!
Fire department receives support from Enbridge - My North Bay Now
#ENBfuelingfutures @enbridgegas
The North Bay Fire Department received 250 combination smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to improve home safety and save lives. Safe Community Project Zero is a public education campaign, supported by the Fire Marshal’s Fire Safety Council, that is providing more than 14,500 alarms to residents in 75 communities across Ontario. The department will be working with community partners to find homeowners that fit the needs of the Safe Community Project Zero Campaign.
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November Education
Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week
The Hawkins Gignac Act, 2013 proclaims the week beginning on November 1 of each year as Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week. No matter which day of the week it is, November 1 always is the start of Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week.
“10 years later, we have seen heightened awareness of the seriousness of the issue and have updated the Ontario Fire Code to mandate CO alarms in all homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplace, or attached garages. We’ve seen the tremendous difference this has made in protecting Ontario families but the responsibility to test and maintain alarms is ongoing.” - Jon Pegg, Ontario Fire Marshal
Facts:
- Many homes in Ontario have an average of 4-6 fuel-burning appliances that produce CO.
-Landlords must ensure CO alarms are installed and maintained in rental properties.
Tenants, remember to test your CO alarms every month by simply pressing the test button. It's against the law for tenants to remove the batteries or tamper with CO alarms in any way.-It's the law! Install carbon monoxide alarms. If you have fuel-burning appliances, install CO alarms adjacent to all sleeping areas.
- Install CO alarms outside all sleeping areas if your home has an attached garage.
Test CO alarms monthly and change the batteries once a year.- Get an annual inspection of fuel-burning appliances and vents by a registered contractor. Prevent CO poisoning and install CO alarms adjacent to all sleeping areas.
- Get an annual inspection of fuel-burning appliances and vents by a registered contractor. It could save you from deadly CO poison.
- Get an annual inspection of fuel-burning appliances and vents by a registered contractor.
It could save you from deadly CO poison.- Credit to the Ontario Office of the Fire Marshall
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October Education
October is a busy month. We have CIBC, Fire Prevention Week & our Halloween event for the community.
CIBC - We have crew members raising money until the end of the month. If you would like to donate here is our link; North Bay: North Bay Firefighters - CIBC Run for the Cure (cancer.ca) .
Fire Prevention Week - Make them WORK for you - runs October 6th - 12th. Emphasizing the importance of having a working smoke alarm. Fill -a-Fire-Truck also happens during the week with collecting donations for the North Bay Food Bank while educating the community on fire safety.
Halloween night - Haunted house - is an event we have back for the community. With that comes the need for Candy donations for the night of. Drop off of any donations are welcomed either at our front desk from 8:30-4:30 or anytime at the back door location on Victoria Street.
CIBC Highlights
Fire Prevention Week & Fill a Fire Truck Highlights
Halloween
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September Education
Test your Smoke Alarm Day - September 28th
Campaign
September 28 is Ontario's Test Your Smoke Alarm Day! In response to 133 fire fatalities Ontario suffered in 2022 – the most in 20 years – Test Your Smoke Alarm Day was launched to encourage all Ontarians to learn more about smoke alarms, fire safety, and home fire escape planning, which can save the lives of you and your loved ones. Most importantly, we want you to test your smoke alarms! We've created free, downloadable resources in multiple languages so everyone can share this safety message.
Visit: Saved by the beep to learn more
Put on by Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council.
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Summer Education
Fire Statistics:
8% of annual loss fires occur in August
Average of 38 injuries
Average of 5 fatalities
TOP IGNITION SOURCES:
Cooking Equipment
Cigarettes
Electrical distribution equipment (extension cords, power bars, surge protectors)
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June's Education
Cottage Fire Safety Tips
To minimize the risk of fire and burn injury, the fire service recommends the following cottage fire safety tips:
Install smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas. It’s the law for all Ontario homes, cottages, cabins and seasonal homes to have working smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas.
- Test smoke alarms at least monthly or each time you return to the cottage. Pack a new smoke alarm and extra smoke alarm batteries in case they need replacement.
- Install and ensure carbon monoxide alarms in your cottage if it has a fuel-burning appliance.
- Develop and practice a home fire escape plan to ensure everyone knows what to do if the smoke alarm sounds.
- Know the telephone number for the local fire department and your cottage’s emergency sign number, in case of emergency.
- Clean barbecues before using them. Keep an eye on lit barbecues and ensure all combustibles, as well as children and pets are kept well away from them. Fires can happen when barbecues are left unattended.
- Keep barbecue lighters and matches out of sight and reach of children.
- Remember to bring a flashlight with extra batteries.
- Check heating appliances and chimneys before using them.
- Check with your local fire department, municipality, or Ministry of Natural Resources to determine whether open air burning is permitted before having a campfire or burning brush. If open burning is allowed, fires should be built on bare soil or on exposed rock. Remove leaves and twigs from around the fire to keep it from spreading. Always keep a bucket of water, sand, or even a shovel close by and supervise the fire at all times.
- If you must smoke, do so outside. Keep a large can with water nearby so cigarette butts can be safely discarded. If you drink, do so responsibly. Tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption are contributing factors in many fires and can lead to serious injuries.
- Burn candles in sturdy candleholders that will not tip and are covered with a glass shade. When you go out, blow out!
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May's Education
FireSmart begins at Home!!
Wildfires have increased over recent years leaving many communities in ruins and many homes destroyed. It’s time to “Begin your FireSmart Journey” starting in and around your home and neighborhood.
North Bay Fire and Emergency Services are encouraging you to help build and maintain a wildfire resiliency up to 30 metres around your home. There are many factors that may impact your property’s risk to wildfire so visiting www.FireSmartCanada.ca is your first step to protecting your home.
Many resources are available to the homeowner such as “FireSmart Begins at Home Guide” or the FireSmart 101 online course. This free 1-hour course will walk you through the 3 “Home Ignition Zones” around your home teaching you how to reduce the risks on your property starting from your home and working outwards. It is also recommended to download the FireSmart Begins at Home App. to help you coordinate your efforts while on the go.
Remember Fire Safety starts with you!!
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April's Education
Open Air Burning
Open Air Burning By-law Amendment
Open Air Burning By-law 2015-115
Hours of Burning is 6:00pm-12:00am.
You MUST have a valid permit to burn.
Make sure to read all the requirements on your permit to make sure you are properly burning.
Check the Forest Fire Map to keep up to date on the fire ratings and when we are in a fire ban.
Please see our Burn Permit section on our website for more information.
BBQ Tips
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February's Education
February 2024
What’s the Risk in February?- 8% of annual loss fires occur in February
- Average of 39 injuries
- Average of 7 fatalities
- Top ignition sources:
- Cooking equipment
- Heating equipment (#1 for fire with no loss/injury)
- Electrical distribution equipment
*2011-2020 Ontario avg. fire losses, Office of the Fire Marshal
February Fire Safety Concerns- Heating equipment
- Cooking equipment
- Electrical distribution equipment
- Carbon monoxide
Fireworks Safety:
In Ontario between 2009 and 2018, there was an average of approximately 20 fires per year caused by fireworks, resulting in an average of approximately $640,000 in property loss per year. Sparklers burn at 649oC (1200oF), hot enough to cause serious burns.Home Safety Visits:
International research shows that home safety visits to educate about how to prevent fires and install smoke alarms are proven to be one of the most effective strategies to reduce fire risk. Plan now for post-pandemic home safety visits
Open Air Burning:
Raise public awareness of the local rules and restrictions associated with open air burning.
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Holiday Fire Safety Q&A's
Q1. Why is fire safety a concern during the holidays?
A1. Statistics show that one in three fire deaths occur during the months of November, December and January.
Q2. Why are there so many fire fatalities during those three months?
A2. Typically fires happen when people get preoccupied or distracted from what we are doing, or we let our guard down.
And with the busyness of the holidays, it can be very easy to get distracted or let our guard down.
Add to that the likelihood that we might have a drink or two – or more - during the holidays and it becomes very easy to forget about the cooking pot on the stove or let a burning cigarette fall onto the couch.
That’s when a tragedy can happen.
Q3. What are some of the leading causes of fires during the holidays and what can people do to prevent them?
A3. Cooking is the leading cause of home fires - people who leave their cooking unattended.
So it is really important to stay in the kitchen while you are cooking.
If you have to leave for any reason, turn off the stove.
Another leading cause is careless smoking. A typical scenario is a person will sit down on the couch with a drink and a cigarette. They may be tired at the end of the day or they get caught up with what’s on TV. It doesn’t take much of a distraction for burning ashes to fall unnoticed on the couch or behind a pillow. And very quickly a fire can occur.
So if you know someone who smokes encourage them to smoke outside. Make sure they use large deep ashtrays. Empty ashes into a metal container – not in the garbage – and put it outside. And people should never smoke in bed.
Cooking and smoking are activities that require careful attention. When you add alcohol to the mix, the combination can lead to disastrous and often fatal results.
Many fire deaths are caused by people attempting to cook or smoke while under the influence of alcohol.
If you drink, drink responsibly and keep an eye on others in your household who are drinking.
Q4. I see you’ve brought in some smoke alarms. Can you talk about the importance of smoke alarms?
A.4 Smoke alarms can be the difference between living or dying in a fire.
Fire spreads so quickly that you may have less than 3 minutes to escape a fire in your home. That means you need as much time as possible to safely escape.
Only working smoke alarms provide the early detection of fire you need to safely escape.
Here are a few examples of smoke alarms. They can cost as little as $14. Make sure you have one on every story of your home and outside all sleeping areas.
And just as important as smoke alarms, you have to make sure everyone in your home knows what to do when the smoke alarms sound in an emergency.
Practice a home escape plan with everyone in the home. Have two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure someone is responsible for helping young children, older adults or people with disabilities to leave the home. Choose a meeting place outside where everyone can be accounted for.
And remember to install carbon monoxide alarms outside all sleeping areas of your home.
Note: Media are likely to ask about Christmas trees, decorative lights and candles as fire hazards.
Actually the bigger risks are unattended cooking and careless smoking.
So we really need people to stay in the kitchen when cooking. Don’t get distracted and leave the pots on the stove.
If you smoke make sure you use deep ashtrays and fully extinguish cigarettes.
Q5. What are some other things that people can do to prevent fires during the holidays?
A5. Christmas Trees:
Make a fresh cut across the trunk about an inch from the original cut when you bring the tree into the house for decorating. Use a tree stand that holds plenty of water.
Trees are thirsty. They may drink up to four litres of water per day, so be sure to check daily and supply fresh water as needed.
Place your tree away from fireplaces, radiators, television sets and other sources of heat.
NEVER use lighted candles on or near a Christmas tree and avoid the use of combustible decorations.
Lights
People should remember to inspect their decorative lights every year before using them. If wiring is frayed or worn, or if the lights are old, they should be replaced.
Turn off Christmas tree lights when you leave and before you go to bed at night.
Make sure lights are used in accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
Candles
Candles are another cause of fires across the province, especially during the holidays.
If you are going to use candles, make sure you place them in a sturdy holder so they can’t be tipped over.
Keep candles away from anything that can burn and always blow them out before leaving the room.
Keep candles away from children and pets, keep them out of bedrooms and keep them away from the Christmas tree.
The number of fires and fire-related injuries and fatalities often increase during the holiday season. Festivities can quickly turn tragic as a result of things such as unattended cooking, faulty decorative lighting and careless use of candles.
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Halloween 2023
This year more than 5000 people came through the door. We would like to say thank you to everyone who donated and everyone who came by and made the night so special.
© Copyright 2014 City of North Bay