Since December 13, the province has been initiating a 12 Days of Holiday Safety campaign through the Ontario Fire Marshal’s office.
“The holidays are probably our deadliest times in terms of fatal fires,” said John McBeth, acting Ontario Fire Marshal and acting chair of the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council. “Right now in the province, we’re sitting at (over 100) fatalities this year so far.”
To have a safe and merry holiday season, the campaign had been promoting daily ways for the public to be aware of the dangers associated with fire, and the means to stay alert to potential hazards for friends and family alike.
“That’s the importance of smoke alarms and testing those monthly,” said McBeth, “(and) making sure you have those in working order. It’s having a home fire escape plan so when the alarm sounds you know how to get out of every single room through two ways.
“It’s also things like safe cooking practices; not getting distracted when the phone rings or doorbell rings. You’re going to have friends and family over, so make sure that you are safe in the kitchen.
“And with decorating happening, making sure you’re using the proper lights on the Christmas tree,” added McLean, “making sure that you’re not using extension cords improperly and not overloading circuits.
Midland and Penetanguishene emergency services/fire Chief Richard Renaud provided additional safety recommendations for locals.
“Consider using battery-powered candles as opposed to your traditional candles; we always recommend that,” said Renaud.
“Make sure your tree is well-watered. A dry tree can go up very quickly, so if it’s a real tree, keep it watered; if it’s an artificial tree, make sure all your lights are intact – inspect those before you put them in.
“(Be aware of) proper exits, and make sure you have access,” said Renaud. “A lot of times when you add a Christmas tree to your home, it can block; you want to make sure you have an easy flow. Hopefully we don’t have any issues, but if there are you want to be able to get out quickly.”
Other tips during the 12 Days of Holiday Safety campaign included: safe usage of portable space heaters by keeping them one metre away from burnable materials; keeping all fire-starting materials including matches and lighters away from children; not leaving a stove unattended; and encouraging smokers to smoke outsize with deep ashtrays for use.
“These are simple tips over the last 12 days that we’ve been able to amplify across Ontario to make sure that you keep your holidays merry and bright this year,” said McLean.
