December can be 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.
“A fire any time of year is devastating. During the holiday season it can be extra hard-hitting,” said Deputy Chief Monique Belair. “Cooking and smoking are the leading cause of fires during the holiday season. Always stay in the kitchen while cooking and if you must leave, turn off the stove. When smoking, butt out in a large deep ashtray and always drink responsibly.”
To help kick off the holiday fire safety campaign, Oakville Professional Firefighters are inviting hockey fans to join them for a Night with the Oakville Blades on November 29 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 name will be entered into the prize draws between periods.
The game starts at 7 p.m. For ticket information, visit oakvilleblades.com.
For a safe holiday celebration, follow these 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.
For more fire safety tips, visit oakville.ca.