October 9–15 is Fire Prevention Week across the country, and our local fire departments use this opportunity to make school presentations and talk about fire safety. But what about for those who don’t get the benefit of a classroom presentation? Keith Bueckert, Niverville’s Fire Chief, has provided a list of ten key things we all need to remember when it comes to fire prevention.
1. smoke alarms
Have smoke alarms on every level of your home. Make sure they’re working and check them regularly.
2. batteries
Change the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors at least once a year, but twice a year is recommended.
3. change Smoke alarms
Smoke alarms need to be changed every 10 years. Consider replacing battery-operated alarms with 10-year lithium alarms that don’t require battery changes. Hardwired alarms are best.
4. fire escape plan
Have a fire escape plan and practice it. Have a meeting place and know two ways out of your bedroom.
5. escape time
Remember that when smoke alarms are activated in a house fire, you have three minutes to escape your home.
6. proper disposal
Dispose of cigarettes and cigarette ash properly. Especially do not dispose of them in potted plants.
7. extension cords
Extension cords should not be used for running fridges or freezers where a fixed wall plug is not available. This is one of the biggest fire hazards in Manitoba. Appliances need to be connected directly into a wall plug.
8. vehicles safety
Vehicles do not need to be plugged in when they’re in a garage, even if the garage isn’t heated.
9. garage safety
If you discover a fire in your garage, do not open the overhead door.
10. Carbon monoxide detectors
Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed in any house with gas- or wood-burning appliance. There should be one on every level of the home.
