Home Fire Safety Basics

Over 70 percent of fire deaths occur in the home, and most are due to smoke inhalation. Smoke alarms will warn you of a fire in time to let you escape.

Prevention Tips

• Install a certified smoke alarm on each level of your home.
• Have and practice a fire escape plan with your family.
• Know your fire department's phone number.
• Have and know how to use your fire extinguisher.
• Keep matches and lighters out of children's reach.
• Don't overload the electrical outlets.
• Always barbecue outside.
• Never leave grease cooking unattended.
• Clean grease from burner pans and stove top regularly.
• Install a smoke alarm outside each sleeping area.
• Install smoke alarms on each level of your home.
• Purchase smoke alarms that have the label of the underwriter's Laboratories of Canada.
• Test your smoke alarm at least twice a year.
• Test the battery once a month (by pushing the button on the unit).
• Never remove the battery for any reason.
• Replace the battery twice a year. A good way to remember is to change the batteries when you change your clocks in the spring and fall.
• Replace smoke alarms every five years.

Updated September 21, 2007  

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Home Fire Safety Quiz

Fire Losses in Canada, Annual Report 2001