Be Vigilant, Because Fire is Not a Gift!

Christmas tree (natural or artificial):

• Set up your Christmas tree away from heat sources (baseboards, space heaters, fireplace, etc.)
• Turn off the Christmas lights when you go to sleep or leave your home.
• Cut approximately 1 cm off the base of your Christmas tree before placing it in a water-filled stand.
• Make sure there is always water in the stand of your natural tree, in order to prevent it from drying out.
• Store your natural tree outside, in the shade after the Holiday period, in order to prevent it from drying out until it can be collected by the city.
• Keep the dry tree away from buildings, balconies, exits, flammable materials.

Candles and lights:

• Turn off Christmas lights and decorations indoors and outside before you go to bed or when you leave your home.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children or pets, and place them where they are not at risk of being tipped over.
• Contain flames using a fireproof container. l
• Turn off all candles when you go to bed or leave your home.
• Use a certified multiple outlet extension cord with power surge protection in order to plug several devices or light garlands.
• Opt for battery-operated candles and LED lights.
• Keep all decorations away from open flames and other heat sources such as light bulbs, light garlands, space heaters, etc.
• Never place any open-flame candles in a Christmas tree.

Fire escapes:

• Ensure that all fire escapes, including balconies and windows are visible, accessible and that the snow has been cleared.
• When choosing where to place your tree, make sure it does not obstruct any means of egress.
• Always keep your entrances clear (free of any cumbersome items near your doors.)

Kitchen:

• Use a timer so as not to forget a meal cooking on your stovetop or in a cooking appliance.
• Always keep an eye on your stove or cooking appliance when preparing a meal.
• Invite your guests to join you in the kitchen so as to avoid leaving your cooking appliances unattended.
• Make sure to turn off your stove or cooking appliance when you leave your home.
• Make sure to keep a functioning fire extinguisher on hand.

Use of technological devices (lithium-ion batteries):

A growing number of appliances used daily are operated by lithium-ion batteries. Few people realize that such devices as laptop computers, smartphones, tablets, scooters or electric bikes can start fires. Here are some tips regarding these devices:

• Make sure that the battery is not damaged. When replacing batteries, store the old ones away from heat sources, in fireproof containers. Make sure to recycle hazardous waste at ecocentres.
• Use chargers that comply with Canadian electrical standards and are certified for use with the type of device you are charging.
• Protect batteries from extended exposure to heat sources and from contact with water.
• Remain present while a device is charging in your home and observe the maximum charging times as directed.
• Read the manufacturer’s instructions and comply with them.

Smoker’s items:

• Provide ashtrays outdoors for your guests. You may improvise one using a tin can containing humid sand and place it on a fireproof surface, shielded from the wind.
• Remember to empty the ashtrays regularly in order to avoid the accumulation of cigarette butts.