Tips for better fire safety at home

Fire safety is essential for keeping you and your family’s well-being, especially as we spend more time at home. With October 4, 2020 marking Fire Prevention Week across Canada, Duracell, in partnership with the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, is urging everyone to be better prepared for a home fire emergency.

“It’s important that each family member understands how they can prevent fire and protect their household,” says Chief John McKearney, president of CAFC. “These simple but essential recommendations will maximize fire safety for your family and home.”

Create a fire escape plan that clearly outlines the best escape routes in case of a fire emergency. Post the plan on the fridge for every family member to see often.
Install at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home, and preferably in every bedroom as well.

Make sure to test alarms monthly and replace batteries yearly when you reset your clocks in the fall. Use trusted batteries like Duracell that can be purchased at your local Home Depot store.

Make sure to never overload electrical outlets with too many plugs and do not run extension cords under carpets or across doorways.

Blow out all candles before leaving a room or going to sleep. Battery-powered candles are a great alternative.

For power outages, rely on flashlights instead of candles.

“Your first line of defence is a working smoke alarm,” adds McKearney. “So remember to put fresh trusted batteries in every alarm in your home at least once a year.”

credit – newscanada