Kitchen

• Avoid loose long sleeves when cooking.

• Check kettles and toasters for damaged electrical cords and thermostats.

• Use appliances that have an automatic shut-off.

• Keep a timer handy to remind you when the oven and burners should be switched off.

• If you take medication that causes drowsiness, do not use cooking appliances.

• Use a temperature-controlled electric skillet or deep-fryer for frying.

• Never leave your cooking unattended.

• Use appropriate cooking appliances and keep them clean.

• Keep a pot cover nearby to “put a lid on it” in the event of a fire.

Living Room

• Fireplace: always use a fire screen, ensuring it is the appropriate size for the fireplace opening.

• Do not overload electrical outlets or use extension cords in the place of additional outlets.

• Smokers should check furniture for fallen cigarettes or embers, which can smoulder undetected for several hours before bursting into flames.

• Ensure careful use of smoking materials and extinguish in water before disposal.

• Never leave cigarettes in an ashtray unattended.

• Use ashtrays with a double rim and deep centre.

• Keep matches, lighters and lit candles out of the reach of children.

• Never leave lit candles unattended.

Bedroom

• Install at least one smoke alarm outside each sleeping area. For improved safety, install a smoke alarm in every bedroom.

• Check electrical appliances regularly: electric blankets, heating pads, curling irons, radios, televisions, irons.

• Bedrooms should be non-smoking areas.

Basement and Attic

• Remove all combustible and flammable materials from the basement and attic.

• Store gasoline in well-ventilated areas.

• Do not store propane indoors.

• Use only approved containers to store and transport gasoline.

• Have a thorough yearly maintenance check of the furnace carried out by a professional.

• When replacing an old furnace, consult a professional to determine the most safe, economical and efficient system for your home.

• Chimneys should be cleaned at least once a year.

Garage and Workshop

• Flammable materials – thinners, gasoline, paints, industrial cleaners – should be stored neatly in approved containers and away from possible ignitable sources.

• Do not smoke, or leave matches or lighters in the garage or workshop.

• Install and know how to properly use the appropriate fire extinguisher for the garage/workshop.

• Keep the area clean. Remove garbage, paper products, oily rags and wood shavings regularly.