Fire Extinguisher : 101

This page is intended to provide individuals with a fire inspection checklist for the home.

Keep tree branches away from electrical wires and chimney openings with regular clipping.

Clear the roof, rain gutters and eaves troughs of branches, leaves, pine needles and other debris with routine inspections.

Ensure the home address number is clearly visible from the street so that first responders to a fire alarm can easily locate the residence.

Use space and water heaters at a minimum 3-foot distance from all flammable materials.

Change furnace filters annually.

Remove lint accumulation in the clothes dryer regularly.

Install a spark arrester on both the fireplace and chimney stack.

Schedule a chimney inspection and cleaning once a year.

Discard fireplace ash carefully into designated metal receptacles.

Do not overload electrical circuits.

Occasionally check power cords, electronic equipment and appliances for signs of damage.

Avoid fastening electrical cables to walls or running them beneath carpeting, where they are vulnerable to moisture and damage.

Ensure proper air circulation around heat-sensitive devices such as televisions, refrigerators, stereo systems and computers.

Rather than use extension cords, have extra outlets installed by a certified electrician.

If extension cords are necessary, use only those integrated with a circuit breaker.

Store minimal chemicals in the home.

Dispose of flammable household chemicals and hazardous waste properly.

Keep dangerous materials in tightly-sealed, labelled receptacles and away from sources of heat.

Be sure the area is adequately ventilated when working with combustible chemicals or materials.

Place used oily rags in metal receptacles with sealed lids.

Do not leave lit cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or candles unsupervised.

Use sturdy, deep ashtrays with cigarette supports

Discard butts and ashes into a non-flammable container.

Avoid smoking in bed.

Set candles on strong, secure holders of a non-flammable material.

Keep all lighters and matches out of children’s reach.

Install at least one smoke detector on every level in the house.

Push the alarm’s “test” button monthly to confirm the unit’s proper function.

Change the battery annually (every 6 months is recommended for optimal performance).

Replace smoke detectors with new units every 10 years.

Have at least one multi-purpose (A-B-C) fire extinguisher in the home

Instruct the family on how to operate a fire extinguisher using the basic “P.A.S.S.” technique (pull, aim, squeeze, sweep).

Inspect fire extinguishers on a yearly basis.

Create and implement an effective home evacuation plan for the family.

Carry out routine fire emergency drills with the family to put the plan into practice. Show each family member how.