Fire Prevention and Safety Edit page

Keep a fire extinguisher in your unit; know how to use it; test it annually; replace it every 10 years.  A fire extinguisher is a contingency in the event of a small fire within your unit and must always be easy to reach.  To use the fire extinguisher, remember the order of operations:  
     
     P.A.S.S.

     Pull – the pin
     Aim – at the base of the fire
     Squeeze – the trigger
     Sweep – back and forth at the base of the fire vigorously.

Additionally, fire extinguishers are located at the ends of each hallway, just outside the waste/recycling room, and throughout the parkade.  Please familiarize yourself with the location of these fire extinguishers.

Test smoke alarms every month.  If they’re not working, change the batteries.  Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years or before the expiry date.

Flammables should not be stored in your unit (e.g., paint, gas, oils, combustibles, etc.).  Propane bottles/tanks must NEVER be brought into the building.

Never leave cooking food on the stovetop unattended, and keep a close eye on food cooking inside the oven.

Keep cooking areas clean and clear of combustibles (i.e., potholders, towels, rags, drapes and food packaging).

Remember to turn off and/or unplug all appliances once you've finished using them.

Do not store anything on your cooktop ... EVER!

Oven fire: keep the door closed and turn off the heat.  Call the fire department.

Microwave fire:  keep the door closed and unplug the microwave.  Call the fire department.  All Gates II microwave plugs are found at the back of the cupboard above the microwave.  If this is not readily accessible, then use the breaker switch to turn off the power.  Tip:  Identify and label the breaker switch in advance so that you can act quickly in an emergency.

Grease fire:  put on an oven mitt and smother the flames by carefully sliding the lid or cookie sheet over the pan.  Turn off the burner.  Don’t remove the lid until it is completely cool.  Never pour water on a grease fire, and never discharge a fire extinguisher onto a pan fire, as it can spray or shoot burning grease around the kitchen, thus spreading the fire.  Additionally, do not use flour on a grease fire.  While sometimes baking soda or salt can extinguish a small grease fire (though not if the fire is too overwhelming), flour cannot and should not be used due to its flammable nature.

If the fire is out of control, the most important thing to do is to call 911 and get everyone outside.  Pull the fire alarm on your way out.

Never leave burning candles unattended.  Do not burn candles on or near anything that can catch fire (like curtains, bedding, combustible decorations, and clothing).

Radiant baseboard heating:  keep free and clear of all obstructions such as curtains, furniture, blankets, etc.

Clear out lint from dryer's lint trap after every load.

Check all electrical appliances (and their connections) on a scheduled basis.  Always replace frayed or damaged cords.

Do not overload electrical outlets.

Each Resident is encouraged to take the time to create a personalized home emergency evacuation plan and practice it with your family to avoid panic and confusion in the event of a fire.

Per our Rules and Regulations, live Christmas trees are not permitted due to the fire hazard.