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Greater Heights
1.1 Candle Safety
An unattended candle is an invitation to disaster; the Fire Department offers
the following tips for the safe use of candles:
• Secure candles in sturdy holders, if possible, place glass chimneys or
shades over them
• Keep lit candles out of reach of children and pets
• Keep candles well away from combustible be materials.
• Snuff out candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
• Keep matches and lighters out of sight and reach of children.
1.2 Christmas Trees
The Fire Department recommends the following care and precaution measures
to ensure an attractive tree that stays fresh indoors for two to three weeks:
• Store the tree outdoors or on a cool porch or patio until you are ready to
decorate.
• Supply fresh water daily - ensure the water level does not drop below
the bottom of the tree.
• Keep your tree away from fireplaces, radiators, television sets and other
sources of heat.
• Turn off the tree lights when you leave and before you go retire at night.
• Avoid the use of combustible decorations.
• Check all electric lights and connections.
• Do not use lights with worn or frayed cords.
• Never use lighted candles on a Christmas tree.
1.3 Home Fire Escape Plan
Fire won't wait - plan your escape. If fire broke out tonight while you were sleeping, would you and your
family get out alive?
• Develop a home fire escape plan now
• Practice your home fire escape plan regularly
• Make sure every family member knows two ways out of every room
• Establish a family meeting place away from the house.
• Call the Fire Department from a neighbour's home.
Smoke Alarm
Working smoke alarms can double your chances of escaping a fire. Give a smoke alarm as a gift - it
shows that you care about your loved ones. Fire can spread quickly and when you least expect it.
• Fire can spread quickly and when you least expect it.
• You may only have a few minutes to escape.
• A smoke alarm on every level of your home can alert you and your family and provide you with
the chance to escape.
• A better way to deal with nuisance alarms.
• Dealing with nuisance alarms www.makeitstop.ca
• NFPA urges replacing home smoke alarms after 10 years.
Test smoke alarms monthly
Test your smoke alarms according to manufacturer's instructions or by using the
test button on the alarm once a month. When the test button is pressed, the alarm
should sound. If it fails to sound, make sure that the battery is installed correctly
or install a new battery. If the alarm still fails to sound, replace the smoke alarm with a new one.
Change the batteries every year
Install a new battery at least once a year, or as recommended by the manufacturer. Install a new
battery if the low -battery warning sounds or if the alarm fails to sound when tested.
Vacuum alarms annually
Dust can clog your smoke alarms. Battery -powered smoke alarms should be cleaned by opening
the cover of the alarm and gently vacuuming the inside with a soft bristle brush. For electrically -
connected smoke alarms, first shut off the power to the unit at the breaker panel, and then gently
vacuum the outside vents of the alarm only. Turn the power back on and test the alarm.
Replace older smoke alarms
All smoke alarms wear out. If your alarms are more than 10 years old, replace them with new
ones.
1.5 Smoking Related Fires
Smoking is still the leading cause of fire deaths.
How can you prevent smoking related fires?