1) install one smoke alarm per floor and outside sleeping areas

2) never remove a smoke alarm from the ceiling due to a nuisance alarm

3) install fresh batteries in all smoke and CO alarms at least
annually

4) replace smoke alarms older than 10 years old, and

5) practice a home fire Escape Plan together with the family.

This winter, a Manitouwadge family tragically lost their home to fire; when it
burned to the ground Fire Chief Owen Cranney credited them with staying out and letting the fire department take over keeping themselves out of harms way. He also emphasized the importance of Northern residents making changes to their fire plans as the seasons required “It is important that families have an escape plan in case of fire which they practice regularly, during winter months, snow may obstruct emergency exits check your escape route to ensure exits are easily accessible and make adjustments accordingly” reminded Cranney. In addition to the tips above, Cranney added that fire alarms should be tested once a month and to change batteries twice a year; when  adjusting your clocks for daylight savings time is a great way to remember.

Don’t wait until Fire Prevention Week in the fall, if you have questions or concerns about the safety of your home, get in touch with your local Fire Department and make fire safety part of your regular routine.

To read about the fire in Manitouwadge this winter, visit www.OntarioNewsNorth.com/?p=8011

Free Fire Escape Planning Guides and safety tips are available for download at www.safeathome.