Media Release - Spring into Action – May Long Weekend
Spring into Action – May Long Weekend
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (Toronto, ON, May 14, 2009) – For all those weekend warriors, die-hard campers, and unabashed lovers of nature, the May 2-4 weekend marks the unofficial beginning of the 2009 summer season.
So before we spring into action, whether it’s opening up the cottage or venturing out to your favourite campsite, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) would like to give you a few pointers for a safe, fun-filled weekend.
At the Cottage and Campsite
Now that you are planning that great city-escape, take along a few simple tips – and enjoy the great outdoors. Make safety second nature.
Cottage
- check burners and exhaust systems of all appliances for blockages or obstructions such as insects, rodent nests, rust fragments or other debris that could lead to dangerous levels of CO;
- get your propane or gas-fired appliances such as stoves, refrigerators and heaters inspected and/or repaired by a certified technician;
- replace batteries in your CO and smoke alarms and test them to ensure they are working properly;
- clean your barbecue and check for any fuel leaks by applying a 50/50 solution of water and dish soap; and
- keep in mind that barbecues are approved for outdoor use only and should not be stored inside any structure.
Campsite
- arrive with enough daylight left for a general safety check, and look for broken glass, sharp objects and natural hazards;
- ensure open-fires are permitted by local and provincial authorities. Clean up the fire pit and cut back any branches or brush that may have grown too close; and
- use only paper or kindling when starting a fire at your campsite. Be sure the fire is in a safe, open area, well away from flammables and other natural combustibles. Never leave a fire unattended.
Portable Heaters
While you may be tempted to pull out that portable heater, never use fuel-burning space heaters in any enclosed space such as a camper, tent, car, home or cottage. Every year, unsuspecting campers and cottagers are seriously injured – and, in some tragic cases, die – due to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning as a result of improper use.
If one of your last May 2-4 holiday stops happens to be a local LCBO store, look for TSSA’s latest SummerSmart brochure for further safety tips on cottaging, barbequing, camping and RV use. You can also check it out on our website – www.safetyinfo.ca. Gain peace of mind, knowing you are protecting yourself and loved ones – and remember: safety is up to you.
Full media release attached below.
