Janet Bedford
Safety Campaign
Oakville Fire kicks off the 2018 holiday safety campaign at Blades game on Saturday, December 1st. Hockey fans encouraged to bring a stuffed animal for the annual Oakville Professional Firefighters Association toy drive.
December is one of the most dangerous times of the year for home fires. As part of its annual holiday fire safety campaign, the Oakville Fire department is urging residents to take every precaution to stay safe.
“Your risk of having a fire can increase dramatically over the holidays,” said Deputy Chief Monique Belair. “All too often, these fires are started by unattended cooking or smoking and in many cases alcohol is involved.”
Oakville Professional Firefighters are inviting hockey fans to join them for a Night with the Oakville Blades on December 1 at Sixteen Mile Sports Complex where the Blades will host a Teddy Bear Toss in support of the firefighters annual toy drive. Donate a new stuffed animal or toy and your you might just win a prizes. The draws for prizes happen between periods.
The game starts at 7:30 p.m. For ticket information, visit oakvilleblades.com.
“Heating equipment is another leading cause of fires during the holidays,” added Belair. “It’s important for heating systems and chimneys to be inspected and cleaned annually by a qualified service technician.”
Christmas Safety Campaign Tips
- Stay in the kitchen when cooking and keep a safe space between the stove and combustible materials that can easily ignite.
- Keep lit candles safely away from children and pets and blow out all candles before leaving the room.
- Encourage smokers to smoke outside. Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers.
- Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in your home. Test them every month.
- Practice a home fire escape plan so everyone in your home knows what to do when the smoke or CO alarm sound in an emergency.
- Drink and smoke responsibly. Excessive consumption is a contributing factor in many home fires.