Municipal Affairs
September 1, 2016

Public Advisory: Labour Day Fire Safety Reminder

This Labour Day weekend, residents are reminded to take extra care to stay safe and prevent fires when spending time at cabins or cottages, or if visiting one of the many parks or campgrounds throughout the province.

To minimize the risk of fire and burn injury, Fire and Emergency Services recommends the following fire safety tips:

  • Install smoke alarms on every level and in all sleeping areas of your dwelling. It's the law for all Newfoundland and Labrador homes, cottages, cabins and seasonal homes to have working smoke alarms.
  • Test smoke alarms at least monthly or each time you return to the dwelling. Pack a new smoke alarm and extra smoke alarm batteries in case they need replacement.
  • Install carbon monoxide alarms if using a fuel-burning appliance.
  • Develop and practice a fire escape plan to ensure everyone knows what to do if the smoke alarm sounds.
  • Remember to call 911 to contact your local fire department, police and ambulance in case of emergency.
  • Clean barbecues before using them and ensure all combustibles are kept well away from them. Fires can happen when barbecues are left unattended.
  • Keep barbecue lighters and matches out of sight and reach of children.
  • Remember to bring a flashlight with extra batteries.
  • Check heating appliances and chimneys before using them.
  • Check with your local fire department, municipality, or the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agrifoods to determine whether open air burning is permitted before having a campfire or burning brush. If open burning is allowed, fires should be built on bare soil or on exposed rock. Remove leaves and twigs from around the fire to keep it from spreading. Always keep a bucket of water, sand, or even a shovel close by and supervise the fire at all times.
  • If you smoke, do so outside. Keep a large can with water nearby so cigarette butts can be safely discarded. If you drink, do so responsibly. Tobacco use and alcohol consumption may be contributing factors in fires and can lead to serious injuries.
  • Burn candles in sturdy candleholders that will not tip over and are covered with a glass shade. When you go out, blow them out.

Additional safety advice and fire prevention resources can be found at www.nfpa.org/public-education Opens in new window.

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Media contact:
Heather May 
Director of Communications 
Department of Municipal Affairs 
709-729-1983, 697-5061 
heathermay@gov.nl.ca
 
2016 09 01                                        2:45 p.m.