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Public Safety

During the winter months, the frequency of residential fires increases dramatically in Canada. This is largely due to the incorrect or unsafe operation of home heating equipment.

To help minimize the chance of a fire or personal injury during the winter:

  • Make sure your heating appliances are properly maintained and serviced before winter.  
  • For heat with wood or fuel pellets, make sure the appliance has proper clearances according to the manufacturer's specifications.
  • Have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional.
  • Children should be instructed to stay at least 1 metre (3 feet) away from wood stoves.
  • For an oil furnace, make sure it is serviced regularly by a qualified technician, and that the ventilation system is cleaned and checked.
  • Heating appliances that burn fossil fuels produce deadly carbon monoxide gas which may build up if the ventilation system is not working properly. Protect yourself by installing a carbon monoxide detector.
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