Cambridge Fire reminds residents to keep fire safety in mind during the holiday season

(Cambridge, Ontario. December 16, 2022) – The Cambridge Fire Department (CFD) would like to remind residents to keep fire safety top of mind during this holiday season.

“I’m wishing for a fire-free holiday season this year, and for all residents to consider fire safety during their holiday celebrations,” said Fire Chief Brian Arnold. “All it takes is for a pot to be left on the stove, or a candle left burning unattended, and a family’s holiday celebrations can quickly turn to tragedy.”

Fire can happen anywhere, at any time, but it most often strikes when we let our guard down by other distractions. During the holidays, distractions can come from the hustle and bustle of visitors, cellphones, by children or the doorbell.

Smoking is another leading cause of fires during the holiday season. Those who smoke should make sure to extinguish cigarettes in large deep ashtrays – not in plant pots which may contain peat moss or shredded bark that can easily ignite. Ashes should be emptied in a metal container, not a garbage can, and put outside.

The CFD wants to remind residents to maintain working smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in their homes. Install smoke alarms on every storey of the home and outside all sleeping areas. CO alarms are legally required outside all bedrooms where a fuel fired appliance is installed or an attached garage. Test smoke and CO alarms every month and install new batteries if needed. 

Enjoy a fire safe holiday season by following these tips:  

• Always stay in the kitchen when something is cooking on the stove 
• Place lit candles away from anything that can burn and out of the reach of children and pets so they can’t be knocked over. Remember to snuff out candles before leaving the room or going to bed. Consider using battery-operated candles instead

• Drink responsibly. Attempting to cook or smoke while under the influence of alcohol is often a contributing factor in fatal fires
• Make sure the bases of real Christmas trees are always immersed in water, to prevent them from getting too dry
• Check all sets of decorative lights before putting them up and discard any sets that are damaged 
• Lights and accessory appliances should be ULC/CSA approved and plugged directly into an electrical outlet. Seek out a licensed electrician if you require any electrical work to be done
• Develop and practice a home fire escape plan so that everyone in your home knows what to do if the smoke or CO alarms sound

For additional information about fire and life safety, please visit the CFD’s Fire Safety page or our Twitter page ​CambridgeFD.