Inside the home:
- Check and clean your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Check your fire extinguishers.
- Check for overloaded or damaged extension cords.
- Check and clean filters above stove.
- Prepare for storm related outages. Make sure your flashlights and portable radios have batteries and that other supplies such as bottled water are stocked and available.
- Practice exit drills with your family so everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.
- Properly store household chemicals and never mix cleaning agents.
- Pull refrigerator out and vacuum or dust the coils.
- Recycle: get rid of old newspapers, magazines and junk mail. These items tend to pile up and can contribute to the severity and spread of fire.
- Windows should be checked to ensure they open and close properly, in case they are needed as an exit.
- Always keep stairs and landings clear for safe evacuation in event of an emergency.
Outside and around the yard:
- Make sure your address numbers are up and visible from the street.
- Clean up yard debris. Cut back dead limbs and grasses.
- Maintain a clear 'fire zone' of 10 feet around structures. Clean up leaves and debris and consider using stone or non-combustible mulches.
- Check outdoor electrical outlets and other electrical appliances.
- Get your BBQ grill cleaned and serviced. Check all propane tanks and lines for leaks and damage.
- Keep 100 feet of garden hose with an attached nozzle connected and ready for use.
- View the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) videos on barbecue safety:
In the garage or shed:
- Clean up and properly store paints, pool and yard chemicals
- Check fuel containers for leaks and make sure they are properly stored.
- Have all power equipment cleaned, serviced and ready for use.
- Let power equipment sit for approximately 30 minutes before placing it inside.
Return to the Fire Safety and Guidelines page.