With weather starting to look more like winter, some important storm tips provided by the HRFE.
Fire Safety During Winter Storms:
- Check batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. Electrically connected alarms will not work when the power is out if they don’t have working back-up batteries.
- Turn ovens, stove elements and small appliances off as soon as the power goes out. Check that nothing is left on the stove or in the oven.
- Use battery operated flashlights, lanterns, and candles. Avoid using candles or other open flame devices.
- Portable generators, barbecues, and other fuel burning appliances produce carbon monoxide. Outdoor-use only means just that. Always install, maintain, and use these appliances as per manufacturer’s instructions. When in use, locate them in well-ventilated areas outside and away from windows, doors and other air intakes to ensure that exhaust fumes do not enter the home. Store propane cylinders and fuel for generators outside the home and in approved containers. Allow generators to cool before refueling.
- Check that wood-burning and other heating appliances are safe to use. Keep snow and ice from blocking chimneys/vents to prevent CO entering the home. Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room or go to bed.
- Make sure everyone knows your fire escape plan and where your meeting place is. Keep all escape routes free of snow and ice, including bedroom windows. Where possible, try to help in keeping fire hydrants clear of snow buildup so that they are easily accessible in the event of an emergency.
- Keep at least one phone charged and available for use in an emergency and be sure your house number can be seen from the street.
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Source: Media Release / HRFE