Each spring and fall, change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and retest them to make sure they work. These seasons have their own fire risks to watch for. On this page we share prevention and safety information about:

  • fireplace and wood stove safety
  • chimney fires
  • student accommodation safety
  • Fire Prevention Week in October

Fireplaces and wood stove safety

At the beginning of the season:

  • have your fireplace, dampers, stove, flue and chimney cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional
  • make sure the screen or glass enclosure is intact

When lighting a fire:

  • use only seasoned woods, and avoid soft woods like Pine, etc.
  • never use a flammable liquid to start a fireplace
  • never overload the hearth with wood or artificial logs
  • put all ashes outdoors and away from the house in a metal container
  • never leave the fire unattended or let it smoulder

Chimney fires

Creosote build-up is the leading cause of chimney fires. Follow these steps to help prevent creosote from building up in your chimney:

  • only burn seasoned firewood that has dried for 6 to 12 months
  • ensure your fire can breathe i.e. has sufficient air flow
  • build hot fires that burn efficiently instead of slow-burning, smoldering fires
  • avoid burning artificial logs
  • warm the flue before lighting a fire if your is on an exterior wall

Student accommodation safety

When college and university students are on the move, fire safety might not be top of mind. These two guides provide important information for parents and students:

Fire Prevention Week in October

The goal of Fire Prevention Week (FPW) is to raise public awareness about fire safety. It is held each October during the week of October 9th. Each annual theme is chosen by the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA)

Contact Us

Clarence-Rockland Fire Department

fireprevention@clarence-rockland.com

613-446-6022