Winter is the busiest season for Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services (MFES) with more fire emergencies, increased hazards and more social gatherings. This upcoming winter season, take the extra step towards safety. If you’re visiting elderly or vulnerable friends and family members, take a moment to look out for their safety at home or share some essential safety tips from MFES.
* If you’re cooking a bit more than usual this season, pay attention to all the activities in the kitchen. Monitor all kitchen appliances and ensure they’re turned off after use, including small appliances.
* Keep anything that can burn (e.g., furniture, clothing, curtains) at least three feet away from heat sources such as fireplaces, stoves, portable heaters or furnaces.
* For decorations: check cords and plugs for frays or damage; avoid placing extension cords under rugs or overloading them; when using a real Christmas tree ensure it is watered regularly and kept away from fireplaces, heaters or candles.
* Make sure guests are aware of your home’s fire-escape plan and know the designated meeting spot in case of emergency. * Have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every floor of your home and outside all sleeping areas; replace alarms every few years as per product guidelines.
* Do not turn on a vehicle or motor inside a garage to “warm up”, even if the garage door is open. Always remove a vehicle from inside the garage immediately after starting.
* Snow and ice can block furnace vents, dryer vents, and fireplace vents can cause carbon monoxide to build up in a home. Make sure to keep vents clear of snow and ice to prevent blockages.
* Enjoy the City’s skating rinks this winter, but stay off deep water, weak ice and constantly changing water levels and temperatures at lakes, ponds, rivers and creeks as they are unstable and dangerous. Always call 911 if you see a person or pet in the water. Do not attempt a rescue yourself.
It’s easier to have fun and enjoy the winter season when everyone is safe and healthy. Let’s work together to reduce the number of emergency incidents in Mississauga and watch our surroundings by staying alert and proactive about safety.
Have a safe holiday season ahead!