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Risk of fire increases at holiday time: fire chief

Of the four structure fires in Newmarket over the last 10 days, two were attributed to unattended candles and one was due to smoking, Central York Fire Services Fire Chief Ian Laing says

The most wonderful time of the year can also increase the risk of fire in your home, Central York Fire Services (CYFS) Fire Chief Ian Laing said.

While cooking is the No. 1 cause of fire, candles and smoking follow closely as activities that require awareness and diligence when engaging in them, particularly over the holiday season as celebrations are in full swing.

Of the four structure fires in Newmarket over the the last 10 days, two were attributed to unattended candles and one was due to smoking.

“People have to be aware of what they’re doing in their surroundings. I know it’s great for ambiance to have candles, but be aware if there are kids, pets or combustible materials near the candles, or you’re setting yourself up for an issue,” Chief Laing said, adding that there are not as many candle fires in summer. “You take on extra risk around this time of year because more people are cooking, entertaining and lighting candles to bring the atmosphere in.”

In light of this time of year and, some would say, the most dangerous time of year for fires as the risks tick upward, CYFS focuses on education so residents are more aware of what can happen, Chief Laing said.

“Our No. 1 job is to prevent fires,” he said.

So far this year, there has been a 20 per cent jump in fire-related deaths in Ontario, according to the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management. From Jan. 1 to Dec. 18, 2018, there were 98 fire-related deaths, up from 78 over the same time last year.

CYFS stepped up its public outreach campaign this week with the release of an educational video featuring fire safety tips for the holidays. Chief Laing narrates the two-minute video and offers tips on how to prevent cooking fires, best practices when using candles, electrical/festive lights safety checks, and safe smoking habits.

Earlier this fall, York Region’s fire chiefs conducted a public fire safety initiative that found them boarding an early morning GO train in Barrie and riding south to Vaughan, where they handed out public safety information to commuters.

For more information on Central York Fire Services fire prevention programs, visit here.

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Kim Champion

About the Author: Kim Champion

Kim Champion is a veteran journalist and editor who covers Newmarket and issues that impact York Region.
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