Public Advisory: The 12 Days of Fire Safety – Day 12

  • Municipal Affairs and Environment

December 24, 2018

As the holiday season approaches, it is important that we all ensure an enjoyable and safe evening when we are sitting around a fire. Here some tips on how to ensure the safety of your home, your family and visitors:

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 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.

Follow the department on Twitter @MAE_GovNL for more holiday safety tips during the holiday season.

The Department of Municipal Affairs and Environment wishes all residents a safe and happy holiday season. Thank you to all firefighters, fire departments, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services for your dedication throughout the year.

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Media contact
Lynn Robinson
Municipal Affairs and Environment
709-729-5449, 691-9466
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca

2018 12 24 10:25 am