Justice and Public Safety
December 14, 2015

Public Advisory: The 12 Days of Fire Safety - Day Four

The crackling sound of a wood stove or fireplace is a key part of the holidays for many families in Newfoundland and Labrador. However, it is important to enjoy these fires safely because they can quickly turn destructive or even deadly.

Ensure an enjoyable and safer evening around the fire by following these tips:

Lighting the fire

• Open the damper to enable proper air flow and keep it open until the fire is out and ashes have cooled;
• Use a small amount of dry wood to build your fire;
• Do not overload your wood stove or fireplace as burning too much can cause flammable chimney build-up;
• Never add highly flammable materials or substances such as wrapping paper or gasoline to your fire; and
• Always place a screen in front of your fireplace to protect your loved ones and home from flankers or sparks.

Making the holidays safer

• Always remove any stockings or decorations hanging on or near the wood stove or fireplace before lighting a fire;
• Never set up a Christmas tree close to a wood stove or fireplace. Keep the tree a minimum of one metre away;
• Avoid fires if impaired by alcohol or other drugs;
• Never go to bed with a fireplace still burning; and
• Inspect, maintain and clean your chimney regularly to prevent chimney fires.

All residents of the province are invited to visit @FES_GovNL on Twitter during the 12 Days of Fire Safety to complete our fire safety quiz for the chance to win an emergency preparedness kit.

For more information about fire safety and emergency preparedness, visit the FES-NL website: www.gov.nl.ca/fes

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Media contact:

Ryan Crocker Media Relations Manager Fire and Emergency Services-Newfoundland and Labrador 709-729-0857, 709-690-1810 ryancrocker@gov.nl.ca

2015 12 14                              2:40 p.m.