Fires can be incredibly dangerous and damaging. Protect yourself and your loved ones as well as your home by understanding what causes fires and how you can prevent these from happening. For further information, we also recommend you visit the Fire Prevention Site (https://london.ca/common-fire-hazards) provided by the London Fire Department.

http://close%20up%20of%20a%20smoke%20alarm%20being%20tested

Smoke Alarms

If a fire starts in your home, early detection is vital to get you and your family out safely. Installing a smoke alarm on every story of your home and outside all sleeping areas, is the law. Test your smoke alarms once a month and change the batteries once a year. Working smoke alarms can give you the precious seconds you need to escape.

http://a%20fire%20spreading%20on%20a%20stair%20case%20inside%20a%20home

Home Fire Escape Plans

Many people who die in home fires are overcome by smoke while trying to escape. Having a home fire escape plan Is one of the best ways to ensure you and your loved ones get out safely. Everyone in your home should know two ways out of all areas. Assign an adult to help the very young and older adults. Choose a safe meeting place outside, and call the fire department from the neighbours.

http://a%20grey%20stone%20fireplace%20with%20grey%20wood%20mantel%20and%20a%20burning%20fire

Fireplaces and Candles

There’s nothing more appealing on a cold winter’s night than a blazing fire place and the warm glow of candles however open flame can be an invitation for disaster. It is important to never leave your fireplace unattended and always use a fireplace screen. Candles should always be lit in a secure holder and should not be left unattended or in the reach of children.

http://close%20up%20of%20two%20people%20drinking%20red%20wine%20with%20a%20fireplace%20burning%20in%20the%20background

Alcohol

Alcohol and fire are a dangerous mix. If someone in your household cooks or smokes under the influence of alcohol, you must be aware of the risk. Keep a watchful eye and make sure that you have a working smoke alarm on every story of your home and outside all sleeping areas. It’s important to remember that there’s more to responsible drinking than calling a cab.

http://close%20up%20of%20gas%20burners%20on%20a%20stove

Cooking

Most home fires in Ontario are caused by careless cooking and start because pots and pans are left unattended on the stove. If you must leave the kitchen when you are cooking, turn off the stove. While cooking, always keep a large lid nearby so that if a pot does catch on fire you can slide the lid over the pot and then turn off the stove.

http://a%20burning%20cigarette%20in%20an%20ashtray

Smoking

Careless smoking is the leading cause of fire deaths. If you know someone who smokes, be sure to remind them of this safe smoking habits. Smokers should use large, deep ashtrays and never empty ashes into the garbage. Never smoked when you are tired or after you’ve been drinking. If someone in your household smokes, make sure your home is well equipped with smoke alarms to alert you in a case of a fire.

http://a%20young%20girl%20sitting%20with%20her%20mother%20in%20front%20of%20a%20fireplace%20with%20candles%20burning%20around%20them

Holiday Season

Every year, tragic fatal fires occur during the holiday season. Take a few minutes to protect yourself and your family by ensuring everyone knows about the exit plan and by keeping a watchful eye on cooking. Freshly cut trees can also be a cause of fires which is why it is important to keep the stand full of water at all times. Check all decorative lights before placing them on the tree and discard of any frayed or damaged lights or cords. Never place lit candles on or near the Christmas tree and discard of the tree when large amounts of needles begin to fall off.

Looking For A Personalized Approach For Your Insurance Needs?

Our team of caring and knowledgeable professionals will help you find the right coverage to suit your unique circumstances. Let's get started. Just click the link below to answer a few quick questions and we'll reach back to you in a responsive and timely manner.

Start Your Quote

Ontario West logo - return to home page