Fire safety during the holidays

Holiday fires often start with everyday activities like cooking, candles, and heating. During Alberta’s winter season, a few simple fire safety habits can help keep everyone safe.

Cooking:

• Always watch your food while cooking, never leave it unattended
• Keep flammable items away from the stove
• Never use water on a grease fire, use baking soda or salt to extinguisher cover with metal lid and turn off heat.

Candles:

• Keep candles one metre away from anything flammable
• Never leave them unattended
• Use battery-powered ones if possible

Decoration and lights:

• Check cords for damages
• Unplug and turn lights off when not home
• Don’t overload outlets
• Avoid extension cords under rugs

Heating:

• Keep heaters one metre from flammable items
• Turn heaters off before sleeping or leaving a room
• Keep vents clear

Smoke alarms and escape plans:

1. Test smoke alarms monthly
2. Have alarms on every level of your home
3. Know two ways out and a meeting spot
4. Remember Stop, Drop, and Roll (if and when safe)

Small steps, safer homes, and happier holidays!