Fire Safety in Winter
Help keep you and your family safe from a winter fire – know what to do before, during and after a storm.
Quick Tips
- Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. This way you will know they are working. Install carbon monoxide alarms in your home and test the alarms.
- Plan two ways out of the home in case of an emergency. Clear driveway and front walk of ice and snow, this will provide easy access to your home.
- Make sure your house number can be seen from the street. If you need help, firefighters will be able to find you.
- Be ready in case the power goes out, have flashlights on hand. Also have battery-powered lighting and fresh batteries.
- Stay aware of winter weather. Listen to the television or radio and watch online for updates.
- Be ready if the heat stops working. Use extra layers of clothes and blankets to stay warm.
- If you use an emergency heat source, keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away.
- Nearly 50 per cent of all space heater fires involve electric space heaters. Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room and when you go to bed.
- When clearing snow, ensure fire hydrants are visible and accessible.
Remember - there are more home fires in winter than in any other season. Half of all home heating fires happen in December, January and February. As you stay cozy and warm this winter season, be fire smart!
Written with information from the National Fire Protection Association. Related Pages
Last edited: April 3, 2024