Vacation Fire Safety

If you are vacationing in the Town of Blind River or any other area in a seasonal home, cottage or cabin, there are many things you can do to keep you and your group safe through effective fire prevention and safety measures.

Smoke alarm and carbon monoxide safety

• Install smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas. It's the law for all Ontario homes, cottages, cabins and seasonal homes to have working smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas.
• Test smoke alarms at least once per month or each time you return to the cottage. Pack a new smoke alarm and extra smoke alarm batteries in case they need replacement.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms in your cottage if there are fuel-burning appliances present.

Emergency planning

• Develop and practice a home fire escape plan to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of a fire emergency.

• Know the emergency phone number (9-1-1 in Canada) and the phone number for the local fire department in case of emergency.
• Bring a flashlight with extra batteries.

Barbecue safety

• Clean barbecues before using them. Monitor all lit barbecues and ensure all combustibles, children and pets are kept away from them. Fires occur when barbecues are left unattended.
• Keep barbecue lighters and matches out of sight and out of reach of children.

Burning risks

• Check heating appliances and chimneys before using them.
• Check with your local fire department, municipality or the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry to determine whether open air burning is allowed and if fires must be built on bare soil or exposed rock. Remove leaves and twigs from around the fire to keep it from spreading. Always keep a bucket of water or sand, or a shovel close by and always supervise the fire.
• If you need to smoke, do it outside. Keep a large can with water nearby, so you can safely get rid of cigarette butts.
• If you drink alcohol, drink responsibly. Tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption contribute to many fires.
• Burn candles in sturdy candleholders that will not tip. If possible, cover the flame with a glass shade. When you go out, blow out!