Prevention

Home fire escape plans

Sometimes we have a limited amount of time to react in an emergency. People tend to panic more if they don't know how to respond in a high-risk situation.

That is why we recommend creating a home fire escape plan. Having a practiced plan in place could make all the difference in the world.

Carbon monoxide detector

It is crucial to have a carbon monoxide detector in your house. It is designed to alert you to potentially dangerous conditions. You cannot see or smell carbon monoxide, which makes a detector essential for every household.

Quick facts about carbon monoxide

• CO is a colourless, tasteless and odourless gas.
• Fuels that do not have enough air to burn completely produce CO gas.
• Any device that burns fuels can produce CO gas, including stoves, fireplaces, generators and engines.
• Exposure to CO gas can cause flu symptoms.
• At high levels, CO gas can cause loss of consciousness or death.

Needle pick up

Needle safety drop bins have been placed throughout the city to help ensure safe disposal practices.

If you are looking for further assistance on harm reduction programs, Saskatchewan Health Authority offers the Turning Point Program.

Safety in your home

• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, change batteries immediately if needed.
• Check for overloaded or damaged extension cords, replace where needed.
• Practice your family's fire escape plan so everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.
• Check windows to ensure they open and close properly, in case they are needed as an exit during an emergency.
• Properly store household chemicals and never mix cleaning agents.
• Get rid of old newspapers, magazines and junk mail (recycle), as these items tend to pile up and can contribute to the severity and spread of fire.
• Check and clean filters above your stove.
• Pull refrigerator out and vacuum or dust the coils.
• Always keep stairs and landings clear for safe evacuation in event of an emergency.

Safety outside of your home

• Ensure your address numbers are up and visible from the street.
• Maintain a clear ‘fire zone' of 10 feet around structures.
• Check outdoor electrical outlets and other electrical appliances for animal nests and to ensure proper wiring.
• Remove leaves and trash from carports and garages as combustible materials are dangerous if they are exposed to heated automobile components, especially under the vehicle.
• Clean up and properly store paints, pool and yard chemicals.
• Check fuel containers for leaks and make sure they are properly stored.
• Let power equipment sit for approximately 30 minutes before placing it inside to be sure there is no possibility of fire.
• If you have a fire hydrant in front of your home, assist the Fire department by keeping it clear of snow.

BBQ safety

• Only use barbeque grills outdoors - using grills indoors or in enclosed spaces is not only a fire hazard, but it exposes occupants to toxic gasses and potential asphyxiation.
• Always position the grill well away from combustible objects - buildings, fences, deck railings and landscaping can catch fire easily and quickly.
• Clean and service your grill regularly.
• Check all propane tanks and lines for leaks and damage.
• Never leave a lit grill unattended.
• Always use long-handled grilling utensils and heat resistant oven mitts to avoid exposure burns from heat and flames.
• Periodically remove grease build-up in catch trays to prevent it from catching fire.