22 fire fatalities in Ontario to date in 2017, leads the Fort Erie Fire & Emergency Services to remind the public of the importance of having working smoke alarms and fire escape plans for all households.
In the past 2.5 months, there have been 22 fire fatalities in Ontario, which is seven more when compared to last year’s recorded numbers between Jan. 1 and March 15. Therefore, the Fort Erie Fire & Emergency Services wants to remind the public of the importance of having working smoke alarms and fire escape plans for all households.
“Many fatal fires occur at night when everyone is asleep, so early warning is crucial to survival,” says Interim Fire Chief Keith German. “The Ontario Fire Code requires working smoke alarms on every storey of the home and outside all sleeping areas. For added protection, our fire department is recommending that you also install a smoke alarm in every bedroom. Larger homes may require additional smoke alarms.”
Simple smoke and carbon monoxide alarm tips:
- Install smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas of your home. For added protection, install a smoke alarm in every bedroom according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Install carbon monoxide alarms outside all sleeping areas if your home has a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage. For added protection, install a carbon monoxide alarm on every story of your home according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly by pressing the test button.
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms wear out over time. Replace alarms according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
Simple steps for home fire escape planning include:
- Everyone should know two ways out of each room, if possible.
- All exits must be unobstructed and easy to use.
- If someone in your home has a disability, develop an escape plan with your household that takes into account their unique needs. Determine who will be responsible for helping young children, older adults and anyone who needs assistance to escape.
- Choose a meeting place outside, such as a tree or a lamp post, where everyone can be accounted for.
- Call the fire department from outside the home, from a cell phone or neighbour’s home.
- Practice your home fire escape plan.
- Once out, stay out. Never re-enter a burning building.
For people who live in apartment buildings and need assistance to escape:
- Make sure you tell the superintendent or landlord if you need assistance.
- Make sure your name is added to the persons who require assistance list in the fire safety plan, so the fire department knows which apartment you are in.
- Know the emergency procedures outlined in the building’s fire safety plan.
