Winter Fire and Ice Safety
Winter brings its own fire and safety risks. On this page we share information about:
- Christmas tree safety
- Holiday lights and decoration safety
- Holiday entertaining safety
- Ice safety
- Removing snow for safety
Christmas tree safety |
Christmas trees cause numerous house fires each year and should be carefully chosen and maintained. Follow these rules to help prevent holiday fires:
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Holiday lights and decoration safety |
When decorating your home for the holidays, keep these safety tips in mind:
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Holiday entertaining safety |
Fires can start easily when we are distracted by cooking and company. During the holidays, remember to:
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Ice safety |
No ice is safe ice and conditions can change in an instant. Obey warning messages and stay off frozen waterways if possible. Always check with local authorities before heading out and never go out alone on ice at night. Signs to look for before going out on the ice:Ice colourThe colour of ice may be an indication of its strength:
Ice thicknessMeasuring the ice is safer than relying on the colour. Minimum thickness should be:
When You Are Alone on IceIf you get into trouble on ice and you're by yourself:
When You Are with Others on IceRescuing another person from ice can be dangerous. The safest way to perform a rescue is from shore by following these steps:
Then, if you do need to go out onto the ice to help someone in trouble:
Move the person to a safe position on shore or where you are sure the ice is thick. Signal for help. |
Removing snow for safety |
Snow and ice can make an emergency situation worse in the winter if it blocks your escape, covers an exhaust vent, or has buried the fire hydrant. Stay safe during the winter by:
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Contact Us |
Clarence-Rockland Fire Department fireprevention@clarence-rockland.com 613-446-6022 |