AutumnWatchAutumnWatchHome Safety Info For The Fall Season

Your Guide To Safetywww.safetyinfo.ca

What’s InsIde:• COandAlarm Safety

•HomeHeating Safety

• FireSafetySense

•HolidaySafety Tips

• Electricityinthe Home

• andmuchmore!

Your Guide To Safetywww.safetyinfo.ca

AutumnWatch

www.tssa.org

www.uniongas.com

www.firesafetycouncil.com

Safety Partners

www.csagroup.org www.cooperators.ca

www.duracell.comwww.enbridge.ca www.kiddecanada.com

www.esasafe.com www.roxul.com

AutumnWatch is an annual public safety awareness campaign. It is designed to give people theinformation they need to reduce risk and prevent incidents. As the weather turns colder and the days get shorter, more time is spent indoors. Important safety themes include home heating, fireplaces, electrical appliances, cooking and holiday decorations such as lights and candles.

The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) and the Ontario Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council thank the following safety sponsors for participating in this year’s AutumnWatch program.

AutumnWatch

2

AutumnWatch

Be on “AutumnWatch”As the weather gets cooler and the days get shorter, we tend to spend more time indoors, enjoying home with friends and family.

Be on “AutumnWatch” this fall season to protect your family and friends from preventable incidents and injuries in your home.

TABLE OF CONTENTSBE CO SAVVY 5 • Four steps to CO safety• Alarm yourself

HOME HEATING SAFETY 9 • An annual inspection is a must• Your home heating system• Gas fireplaces too hot for tots • Your wood stove or fireplace • Your portable space heater • Fresh air – let your house breathe

AUTUMN CLEAN-UP CHECKLIST 19

FIRE SAFETY IN APARTMENT BUILDINGS 20 HALLOwEEN DECORATIONS 22

CELEBRATE SAFELY 23 • Use candles with care • Bright lighting tips • Eliminate tree trouble• Shop, but watch your step • Give gifts that save lives

PREVENT COOKING FIRES 29 • Steps you can take to prevent cooking fires • What to do if a cooking fire starts• Know your fire extinguishers PLUG IN SAFELY 31 • Avoid common electrical hazards in

your home AUTUMN RENOVATIONS 36 • Find a good contractor • Get an accurate estimate • Sign a contract

AutumnWatch AutumnWatch

3

Beat TheSilent Killer

In Ontario, Over 70% of all carbon monoxide deaths and

injuries occur in homes.

TAKE ACTION - COSafety.ca

Beat TheSilent Killer

In Ontario, Over 70% of all carbon monoxide deaths and

injuries occur in homes.

TAKE ACTION - COSafety.ca

AutumnWatch

Be co SAvvY

Carbon monoxide (CO) exposure is a deadly but common hazard in your home that can happen any time of year. Especially when the cooler, autumn weather settles in, we look to things like our furnace or gas fireplace to heat up our homes.

To keep your home safe from CO hazards, follow these four steps:

1. Be aware of the hazard. Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odourless and poisonous gas that is produced by common household appliances such as your furnace, fireplace, gas stove, propane heater, kerosene lantern or any other fuel-burning equipment.

2. Eliminate CO at the source. Get your home’s fuel-burning appliances and equipment inspected by a certified technician who works for a TSSA-registered heating contractor. To ensure a technician is registered, call 1-877-682-TSSA (8772) for confirmation.

3. Install certified CO alarms. They will warn you of rising CO levels, giving you time to take potentially life-saving action. For proper installation locations, follow manufacturer instructions or ask your local fire department.

4. Know the symptoms of CO poisoning. They are similar to the flu – nausea, headache, burning eyes, confusion and drowsiness – except there is no fever. If they appear, immediately get everyone, including pets, outside to fresh air and call 911 and/or your local fire department.

Four Steps to co Safety

AutumnWatch

5

AutumnWatch

canadian Association of Fire chiefs Association canadienne des chefs de pompiers

In addition to ensuring that your home’s fuel-burning equipment has been inspected professionally, your next important line of defence against CO is having properly installed and maintained alarms.

When it comes to alarms, follow these tips:

DO’S AND DON’TS

DO install CO alarms: � on every level of your home; � near sleeping areas; and � according to manufacturer’s instructions.

DO NOT install CO alarms near: � windows or vents; � bathrooms; � heating or fuel-burning appliances � smoke alarms (unless combination alarm)

Test once a month Remember to test your CO and smoke alarms once a month by pushing the test button on the unit.

Change batteries annually Replace batteries once a year, including back-up batteries for plug-in alarms.Use fall daylight savings time as a reminder.

Replace CO alarms when required CO alarms wear out over time.Check the manufacturer’s instructions to find out when your particular unit should be replaced (usually after 7-10 years for CO alarms and 10 years for smoke alarms).

Alarm Yourself

The canadian Association of Fire chiefs Recommends That YouKnow Your Fire Department’s Phone Number And Keep It Posted

By every Phone In Your Home.

AutumnWatch

6

1#

© 2

013

P&G

AutumnWatch

A Decade of Protection from Fire and Carbon Monoxide Danger

Canada’s first line of CO alarms withbatteries that last a full 10 years.

Can be placed anywhere in your home: on a shelf or wall-mounted!

10-year sealed lithium battery never needs changing

Alarm and battery BOTH last 10 years

Continuous Digital Readout | Portable Portable

www.safeathome.caReplace CO alarms every 7-10 years whether plug-in, battery operated or hardwired!

AutumnWatch

HoMe HeATING SAFeTY

An annual inspection is a mustIn Canada, we depend on our heating systems to keep us safe and warm at home. It not only makes sense to check and maintain your furnace and/or fireplace, but it is vitally important. Heating systems that burn fuel such as gas, oil or wood need to be inspected and maintained annually. It is the only way to ensure efficient and safe operation.

For furnaces, while you can and should change filters and check for leaks, the only person qualified to inspect your natural gas, propane or oil furnace is a certified heating contractor.

All certified heating contractors are registered with TSSA. If you are unsure if your contractor is certified call the TSSA at 1-877-682-8772 for confirmation or visit www.tssa.org.

Remember, furnace and fireplace inspections are your responsibility.

If you do not arrange it, it will not get done. Do not forget to have your furnace, fireplace or any fuel-fired appliance inspected annually!

Getting Started › Ask a friend or your fuel supplier for recommendations.

› Obtain at least three written estimates specifying the work to be done, who will do the work, as well as start and completion dates.

› Determine whether repairs are covered by a warranty.

› Avoid ‘fly-by-nighters’, especially people who show up at your door offering special deals.

AutumnWatch

9

Your Home Heating SystemTo keep your home heating system working the way it should this season there are actions that you as the owner can take, but there are things that need to be performed by a professional.

Check out the list below to see what needs to get done with your heating system:

Do-It-Yourself � Examine the heating system

occasionally for signs of deterioration, such as water stains, corrosion or leakage.

� In forced-air systems, clean the furnace air filters frequently – at least twice a heating season.

� Keep the area around the furnace free from dust, lint, rags, paint, drain cleaners and other materials or chemicals that could catch fire or explode if they become too hot.

� Make sure warm-air outlets and cold-air outlets are not covered by carpets or blocked by debris.

� Make sure walls, other obstructions or new renovations do not block the heating system’s air supply.

call a Professional � If your heating system stops working,

check the electrical fuse, the switch and the thermostat, and then call for a heating technician.

� If snow or ice covers your outdoor regulator, contact your fuel supplier.

� Under no circumstances should unqualified people tamper with heating systems. If you have questions or concerns, contact a qualified heating contractor or call TSSA at 1-877-682-8772 (TSSA).

AutumnWatch

10

CSA Group is a leading provider of product testing and certification services for electrical, mechanical, plumbing, gas, personal protective equipment and a variety of other products.

Only when a product has been certified to an applicable standard or certification document is it entitled to bear the appropriate

CSA Group certification mark.

Public Safety is Our Priority

www.csasafetytips.com

AutumnWatch

AutumnWatch

It takes just two seconds to be seriously

burned. Many children have been burned

while parents are in the room.

Gas fireplaces too hot for tots

Every year, children are burned from contact with the glass barrier at the front of a gas fireplace. Statistics show that contact burns – injuries sustained when a part of the body touches a hot object – are the second leading cause of burns in children.

Young children under five years of age, and especially those under two years, are at an increased risk. Children have been burned when they have fallen towards the gas fireplace and have pushed up against the hot glass for balance. Serious third-degree burns are the result. Others have touched the glass only for a moment out of curiosity. It takes just two seconds to be seriously burned. Many children have been burned while parents are in the room.

Children are not only at risk for burns when the gas fireplace is in use but before and after use too. The glass barrier can heat up to more than 200°C in about six minutes during use. It takes an average of 45 minutes for the fireplace to cool to a safe temperature after a fire has been extinguished. Some children have even been burned when the fireplace is not in use, by the heat from the ignition light. Children are at risk of a burn injury whenever they are around a gas fireplace.

AutumnWatch

12

13

AutumnWatch

Create a barrier around the gas

fireplace. Safety guards can be

installed to keep your child at a

safe distance at all times.

To keep your child safe around gas fireplaces:

� Never leave a young child alone near a gas fireplace; they can be burned before, during, and after use of the fireplace.

� Create a barrier around the gas fireplace; safety guards can be installed to keep your child at a safe distance at all times.

� Teach children about the dangers of fire; children are fascinated by heat and fire and may not understand the dangers.

� Consider not using the fireplace if you have young children less than five years of age, using it only after your children have gone to sleep, or consider turning the unit off completely, including the ignition flame, whenever the unit is not in use.

� Be aware of contact burn dangers from irons, curling irons, radiators, older oven doors, wood-burning stoves, and fireplaces.

Reprinted with permission of Safe Kids Canada www.safekidscanada.ca

AutumnWatch AutumnWatch

13

Your Family is Safe and Sound with ROXUL®, the Fire-Resistant Insulation

That’s Made From Stone.

For all your thermal and

soundproofi ng needs,

visit www.roxul.com Fire Resistant

WaterRepellent

SoundAbsorbent

SavesEnergy

Madefrom Stone

RecycledContent

ROXC-2141_0613

ROXC2141_Autumn Watch Fire Prevention Ad.indd 1 13-06-06 9:32 AM

Your wood stove or fireplace

This time of year, it can be comforting to curl up beside a crackling fireplace, or gather family and friends around the warmth of a wood stove. Take the necessary steps now to ensure that wood stoves and fireplaces are operating properly and free of potential hazards.

› Check stove pipes and connections. Ensure that screws are located at every joint and that each connection is a tight secure fit. Also, look for signs of dark staining or white powder (also referred to as leeching) at every joint. Rust is a clear sign that it is time to replace the stove pipe.

› Check walls for excessive heat. If the wall above your fireplace or wood stove gets very hot, it could be a sign of improper chimney installation and a potential fire hazard.

› Protect walls and floors from heat and sparks. Keep combustible objects away from your wood stove or fireplace and always use a properly fitted screen to cover the fireplace opening. Floors and walls should be protected with non-combustible shields.

› watch for the warning signs. Look for corrosion or rust on the outer shell of a metal chimney. Watch for bulges or corrosion of the liner as well. Loose bricks, crumbling mortar, dark stains and white powder all indicate problems with a masonry chimney. It should be repaired immediately by a certified heating contractor or mason.

› when in doubt, call an expert. The safest and most practical way to handle the annual maintenance of your chimney, woodstove and fireplace is to contact a WETT* Certified Chimney Sweep. It is a relatively small investment for peace of mind.

*Wood Energy Technology Transfer

AutumnWatch

15

AutumnWatch

DID YOU KNOw?Improper use of space heaters is one

of the leading causes of fires and

carbon monoxide exposure in homes

and cottages.

Your portable space heaterSpace heaters are a handy way to add a little extra warmth to one corner of the house without turning up the furnace. But space heaters can be a hazard if used improperly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and these safety tips to stay safe and warm:

� Never use fuel-burning portable space heaters (such as propane or kerosene) in any enclosed space, as it can lead to deadly carbon monoxide exposure.

� Never use space heaters to dry flammable items such as clothing or blankets.

� Keep all flammable objects at least one metre away from space heaters.

� If you use an extension cord, make sure it is the right size and gauge to carry the electrical load being drawn by the space heater.

� Never use an electrical space heater in a wet area or any area that can be exposed to water.

� Only purchase or use electric space heaters that bear the mark of a recognized certification agency or regulatory body.

� Never leave an operating space heater unattended and always turn off space heaters before leaving a room or going to sleep.

� Supervise children and pets at all times when a portable space heater is in use.

AutumnWatch

16

AutumnWatch

Fresh air – let your house breatheIn attempting to conserve energy and reduce our heating costs, we can sometimes make our homes too air tight. In fact, for a house to be healthy, it needs to “breathe”. It needs to expel moisture and other gases from inside and take in a constant supply of fresh air from outside.

When a fuel-burning appliance in your home does not get enough fresh air and fails to completely burn its fuel, carbon monoxide is produced.

If ventilation is damaged or blocked, or if you have a powerful kitchen fan, bathroom fan or open hearth fireplace, then carbon monoxide can be drawn back inside the house.

Exhaust fans can compound the problem.

Be mindful that the air you exhaust from your home has to be replaced. Powerful exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens or open hearth wood-burning fireplaces can actually create a negative pressure inside your home, resulting in a backdraft which will draw exhaust fumes from your furnace, hot water heater or other appliances back into the house.

How can you tell if your home is too air tight?

� The air inside your home is usually stuffy and stale.

� Excessive condensation is dripping down your windows (which could also mean your humidifier is set too high, wso check that first).

� The pilot light on your gas appliance keeps going out.

� A gas flame burns yellow instead of blue (except in the case of a natural gas fireplace).

� The smell of exhaust gases is present in your home. Although you cannot smell carbon monoxide, other exhaust gases do have an odour.

If you see any of these signs, contact a certified heating contractor or a building ventilation expert to check your home and correct the problem.

Consider these solutions:Air exchangerIf your home is tightly sealed to make it energy efficient, consider investing in an air exchange system. Professionally installed, it exchanges the air inside your home for fresh outside air every 24 hours, without wasting heat.

Direct feedWhen renovating or building, consider installing heating systems and appliances that have a direct feed of outside air for combustion, so they do not draw air from inside the home. The combustion chambers are sealed so they are safer and more energy efficient.

AutumnWatch AutumnWatch

17

WHERE ENERGY MEETS SAFETY

We support the people who keep our communities safe.

Our Safe Community program provides firefighters, police departments and other first responders with funding for everything from equipment to training. The program gives the men and women who protect us the support they need to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our communities, now and into the future.Enbridge delivers more than the energy you count on. We deliver on our promise to help make communities better places to live. It’s part of the reason we were named one of the Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World.

EnbridgeGas.com/Community

community

community

FIND OUT MORE

WHERE ENERGY MEETS SAFETY

We support the people who keep our communities safe.

Our Safe Community program provides firefighters, police departments and other first responders with funding for everything from equipment to training. The program gives the men and women who protect us the support they need to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our communities, now and into the future.Enbridge delivers more than the energy you count on. We deliver on our promise to help make communities better places to live. It’s part of the reason we were named one of the Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World.

EnbridgeGas.com/Community

community

community

FIND OUT MORE

outside the house: Ensure furnace vents are not blocked from the outside by any objects or

other obstructions.

Store fuel (i.e. gasoline in approved containers, propane tanks) outside. Keep them away from direct sunlight and other heat sources.

Inside the house: Have the furnace, fireplace and chimney inspected.

Make sure warm-air outlets and cold-air returns are clear of carpets, furniture and debris.

When time to change your clocks, change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

Do You Have Something Blocking Your Furnace vents?

Autumn cleanup checklist

�If so, CO may be drawn back inside your house, which will lead to deadly levels of CO exposed to you and your family!

20

FIRe SAFeTY

IN APARTMeNT

BUILDINGS

Do you have at least one smoke alarm in your apartment, and are you sure it works? Smoke alarms save lives by giving you early warning of a fire in your apartment.

Do you know how to protect yourself from smoke? Remember, most people die from smoke, not fire.

Do you have a roll of duct tape? Duct tape is a special tape available from hardware stores. Use it to block smoke from entering your apartment through spaces around your doors, vents and other openings.

Do you know how you are going to escape from your building if there is a fire? Most apartment buildings have at least two exit stairways. Find out where these are and practice using them. Know which floors you can use to cross from one stairway to another.

If you are unable to use stairs in an emergency, have you told your landlord or building manager that you will need help? Your apartment number can be added to the fire safety plan, so fire fighters will know that you may need to be rescued.

Do you know where the fire alarms are on your floor, and how to pull them? You will have to use the fire alarm if you discover a fire on your floor.

Have you arranged a place outside the building where you will meet everyone you share your apartment with after you leave? Having a meeting place gives you confidence that everyone got out safely.

Do you know the telephone number to call if there is a fire? Keep this telephone number in a place where you can find it fast in an emergency.

If you answer “no” to any of these questions, you should get the information you need by speaking to your building management or your fire department.

AutumnWatch

20

AutumnWatch

22

AutumnWatch

HALLoWeeN

DecoRATIoNS

If you and your family celebrate Halloween, make it a safe and happy event for everyone. Halloween should be filled with surprise and enjoyment, and following some common sense practices can keep the festivities safer and more fun. Follow these simple safety tips and you can ensure that a fun and enjoyable time is had by all.

• Do not let children handle sharp utensils to carve pumpkins. Have them draw their designs on pumpkins with a marker and then do the carving for them

• Consider using LED lights to light your jack-o-lanterns

• If you use candles to light jack-o-lanterns, do not leave them unattended

- If indoors, keep jack-o-lanterns at least one metre away from flammable materials such as curtains

- If outdoors, keep jack-o-lanterns at least one metre away from

flammable materials and out of the path of trick-or-treaters

• Clear your front entrance of any items over which trick-or-treaters might trip

• Keep all lit candles out of the reach of children and pets

Make sure that pets are properly secured (for example, in a closed room with food and water), so that they do not suddenly rush out when you open your front door to trick-or-treaters.

AutumnWatch

22

AutumnWatch

ceLeBRATe SAFeLYceLeBRATe SAFeLY

23

When family and friends get together for Thanksgiving, Christmas and other holidays, excitement is in the air. Keep the following safety tips in mind, and make sure your home is equipped with working smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. Develop and practice a fire escape plan and ensure overnight guests are familiar with your procedures.

Use candles with careCandles create a festive mood and a warm, inviting atmosphere. But left unattended or put in the wrong place, they become a hazard.

Know these basic safety rules for candles:

• Never leave burning candles unattended

• Extinguish all candles before going to sleep or leaving the room

• Do not permit children to keep or use candles or incense in their rooms

• Candles should only be used when an adult is present and awake

• Never use lighted candles on or near a decorated tree or other greenery

• Keep candles at least one metre

away from anything that can burn, including curtains, decorations and wrapping paper

• Always use stable, nonflammable

candle holders

• Place candles where they will not be knocked down or blown over

• Always keep burning candles up high, out of the reach of children and pets

• If you have children in your home, store candles, matches and lighters out of their sight and reach

AutumnWatch AutumnWatch

23

?are you in the zone

www.tssakidszone.ca

Be a Quiz-Wiz, Play the Game!

25

Bright lighting tips

Inside and outside of the house, decorative lights bring smiles to the faces of children and adults alike. When you put up lights this year, do not forget to put safety first.

• Consider using fewer lights when decorating. You will use less energy and reduce your energy bill

• Inspect all lights and extension cords. Replace any that are fraying or damaged

• Use only light sets that bear the mark of a recognized certification agency or regulatory body such as CSA or ULC

• All lights sold in Canada are marked clearly for either indoor or outdoor use. Follow electrical product ratings for indoor and outdoor use and wattage

• Follow manufacturers’ guidelines for stringing light sets together. As a general rule, string no more than three standard-size sets of lights together

• Do not overload extension cords or electrical receptacles

• Unplug all holiday lights when you go to sleep or leave home

• Use automatic lighting timers (indoors and outdoors) to ensure that lights are not left on

• Roll up excess electrical cords and keep them away from high traffic areas. Do not run electrical cords under rugs or through windows or door openings

Never keep an extension cord plugged in when it is not in use

• Secure cords so they will not be pulled or tripped over. Never use a stapler to secure them

• When replacing a light bulb, make sure that the replacement bulb is of equal or lesser wattage than that recommended by the manufacturer

• Never let young children unplug or plug in the lights

• Never yank on the cord to unplug lights. Pull the plug itself from the outlet

eliminate tree trouble Decorating the Christmas tree is a cherished family pastime. Choose, place and decorate your tree wisely and keep it well cared for to ensure an enjoyable festive season.

AutumnWatch

25

26

AutumnWatch

Use these tips to reduce risk:

• Consider switching to an artificial tree as there is less risk of a fire

• Test live, cut trees for freshness by bending a few needles in half. If they

snap in two, the tree is dry and poses a greater fire risk

• Put your tree in a sturdy, non-tip stand

• Keep cut trees well supplied with water as dehydrated trees can catch fire more easily

• Make sure the tree is at least one metre away from any flame or heat source

• Try to position it near an outlet so that cords are not running long distances. Do not place the tree where it may block exits

• Never decorate a tree with candles;

• Inspect electrical lights and extension cords for wear and tear, and replace any cords that are beginning to fray or have broken sockets

• Use only light sets that bear the mark of a recognized certification agency or regulatory body

• Do not overload the circuit by stringing too many cords together at a single outlet

• Safely dispose of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are flammable and should not be left inside the home or garage, or placed against the house

Shop, but watch your step

Shopping malls are crowded and shoppers have armloads of bags and parcels during the holiday season. Take extra care when riding escalators.

While escalators are extremely safe and reliable, riders can fall and be injured if they are not paying attention, using strollers (which are prohibited), playing around, or overloaded with luggage and bags. Based on incidents reported to TSSA, more than 90 per cent of falls and injuries on escalators are rider-related.

A few simple reminders will keep you on your feet:

• Step on and off with care

• Stand in the centre of the step, not right next to the railing, especially when wearing soft-soled footwear, to avoid entrapment

• Hold onto the handrails

• Attend to children and hold their hand

AutumnWatch

26

27

AutumnWatchAutumnWatch

27

• Always stand facing forward

• Keep loose clothing, such as long coats, scarves, and shoelaces clear of steps and sides

• Keep handbags, knapsacks, shopping bags and parcels away from the handrails

• Do not run up or down escalators

• Move away quickly from exit areas

• If you have luggage or a stroller, use an elevator

It is also wise to take a careful and courteous attitude with you on escalators. Pay extra attention to small children and seniors. As a final safety measure, it is helpful to notice where the escalator’s emergency stop buttons are located.

Give gifts that save lives

This year, when you are trying to find that perfect gift for a friend or family member, how about creating a tradition that includes a gift that could potentially save a life?

Consider wrapping up some safety and putting it under the tree with gifts such as:

• Smoke alarms complete with batteries

• Carbon monoxide alarms

• Multipurpose fire extinguishers

• Fire escape ladders for second-floor bedrooms

• Window guards, especially for children living in highrises

• Non-slip bath mats or shower grab bars

• Anti-scald devices, which help control faucet temperatures

• Child locks, baby gates and outlet covers

• Flashlights and batteries

• Night lights

AutumnWatch AutumnWatch

27

29

PReveNT

cooKING

FIReS

Watch what you heatCooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home fire injuries in Canada and the U.S., according to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA). Most of these fires can be prevented by following simple fire safety steps.

Steps you can take to prevent cooking fires

> Never leave cooking unattended. Two out of five deaths in home cooking fires occur because the cooking was unattended.

> Keep the cooking area clean. Always wipe appliances and surfaces

after cooking to prevent grease buildup.

> Do not store combustible objects near the stove.

Curtains, potholders, dish towels and food packaging can easily catch fire.

> Always turn pot handles inward. Turning handles toward the centre of the stove can prevent pots from being knocked off the stove or pulled down by small children.

> wear short or close-fitting sleeves when cooking.

Fires can occur when clothing comes in contact with stovetop burners.

> Do not overheat cooking oil. Cooking oil can easily start a fire.

Never leave hot oil or grease-laden foods unattended. If you must leave the room, even for a short period of time, turn the burner down to simmer, or off completely.

> Teach children about safe cooking. Young children should be kept at least one metre away from the stove while older family members are cooking. Older children should cook only with permission and under the supervision of a grown up. Tell children of the potential dangers, particularly of unattended cooking.

AutumnWatch

29

AutumnWatch

25

what to do if a cooking fire starts

> Pot: put a lid on it. If a pan catches fire, carefully slide

a lid over the pan using a high cuff oven mitt and turn off the stove burner. Leave the lid on until completely cool! Do not carry the burning pan to a sink or outside. Movement may permit oxygen to the fire allowing it to ignite, or cause hot grease to spill and cause burns.

> Oven or microwave: keep the door

shut and turn off the heat. If flames do not go out immediately,

call the fire department. Opening the oven or microwave door allows oxygen to the fire and increases the potential for the fire to spread beyond the appliance.

> Never pour water on a grease fire. Water causes grease fires to flare and spread.

> Know the emergency number for your fire department.

Always call your local fire department before attempting to fight a fire.

> Always keep a fire extinguisher at the kitchen door.

Know how to use it. Only use it if you have a clear escape route and the fire department has been called first.

Know your fire extinguishers

Not all fire extinguishers are alike. They are designed for specific types of fire. There are three general types of fire extinguishers:

> Class A – fires involving ordinary combustibles such as wood, cloth or paper;

> Class B – fires involving flammable liquids, greases, gases, etc.; and

> Class C – charged electrical equipment fires.

Choose a multi-purpose fire extinguisher to put out all classes of fires.

AutumnWatch

30

31

AutumnWatch

PLUG IN SAFeLY – AvoID coMMoN eLecTRIcAL HAZARDS IN YoUR HoMe

AvoID DAMAGeD oR UNSAFe coRDS

Frayed or damaged extension cords or cord ends can expose wires, resulting in potential shock and fire hazards. Incorrect use of extension cords can create potential shock and fire hazards.

Here are some safety tips to remember when using extension cords:

� Always check to ensure they bear the mark of a recognized certification agency. For a list of agencies, visit www.esasafe.com.

� Check cords regularly and replace if they are worn or damaged. Look for worn insulation, splices on the cord and loose or exposed plug parts.

� Select the appropriate cord for the application, note some cords are designed for interior use only, and others for exterior use.

� Extension cords are normally rated in amps, and must be used within the ampere rating. Follow manufacturer’s instructions and, if you have questions, contact the manufacturer.

� Never run cords around doorways, under carpeting and/or furniture where they could be damaged.

� If outdoors, ensure connections are above the ground and away from water and high traffic areas.

� Never remove the third prong, or try to force a three-pronged plug into a two-pronged outlet.

� It’s recommended to unplug extension cords that aren’t in use.

� Extension cords are only to be used for temporary purposes. They do not replace the need for installation of outlets and proper wiring where necessary.

� Consult with a licensed electrical contractor for information on how you can update your home’s wiring system.

AutumnWatch AutumnWatch

31

32

oveRLoADING & oveRHeATING oUTLeTS

Electrical systems are designed to carry electricity safely throughout our homes. Overloading an electrical circuit by plugging in too many electrical items draws more electricity through the system than it was designed to carry. This can create overheating and result in fire.

Avoid overloading:

� If fuses frequently blow or circuits frequently trip, this is a sign the system is overloaded.

� Always use the correctly rated fuse. For example, don’t use a 30 amp fuse to replace an existing 15 amp fuse.

� Using multi-outlet extension cords can lead to plugging too many items into a single circuit.

� Avoid overloading circuits. Fuses that frequently blow or circuit breakers that trip can be a sign of overloading on the circuit.

� When replacing outlets contact a licensed electrical contractor if you are uncertain of the load rating for your home’s wiring.

cHecK FoR HIDDeN eLecTRIcAL HAZARDS

Damaged or deteriorated wires can present shock or fire hazard and are signs you should be concerned with your home’s electrical system.

Avoid potential hazards by:

� Watching for dim or flickering lights, which can be a sign of a loose connection in a lighting circuit, fixture, or your electrical service.

� Check for overheated plugs or outlets which can indicate overloading or possibly faulty electrical wiring or equipment.

� Remember, if you have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlets they should be tested monthly, as per manufacturer’s instructions, to ensure they are operating properly.

AutumnWatch

32

LOOK UP

LOOK OUT

at PlayPowerline Safety Flying Flying

KitesKites

Climbing Trees

Utility poles + padmount transformers

For more electrical safety tips:

esasafe.com Twitter @HomeandSafety

facebook.com/ElectricalSafetyAuthority

Look Out for Overhead Powerlines

POWERLINE HAZARDS

cHecK FoR HIDDeN eLecTRIcAL HAZARDS

AutumnWatch

RENOVATING YOUR HOME?Understand the risks associated with doing electrical work. Unless you are very experienced and familiar with electrical work, the Electrical Safety Authority recommends using a Licensed Electrical Contractor. Visit www.esasafe.com for a list of Licensed Electrical Contractors in Ontario.

If planning to do electrical work, ask yourself: � Do I understand my home’s electrical system?

� Do I know the rules and requirements for electrical wiring and installations in the most recent edition of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code?

� Do I know the risks associated with different wiring installations?

� Am I confident that the electrical work previous owners did meet Ontario Electrical Safety Code requirements?

� Have I made arrangements for an Application for Inspection? Call 1-877-372-7233 to check your inspection requirements.

� If you are not familiar with your home’s electrical system, or do not know who has done the electrical work in your home in the past, ESA recommends you consult a licensed electrical contractor about your home’s electrical requirements.

If you are hiring someone to do electrical work, ask: � Do they hold a valid Electrical Contractor Licence? For a list of licensed electrical contractor’s visit www.esasafe.com.

� Have they made arrangement for an Application for Inspection?

AutumnWatch

34

Follow us @ontarioconsumer | facebook.com/ontarioconsumerMINISTRY OF CONSUMER SERVICES

We can help avoid costly mistakes. Visit www.ontario.ca/homerenos for tips before hiring a contractor.

Renovating?

12_12_tssa_pub_5.indd      1 12/12/2012      4:01:40  PM

AutumnWatch

ReNovATING

YoUR HoMe

Visit our website at www.ontario.ca/consumerservices to watch our videos and get valuable tips before you start your home renovation projects.

Autumn is a popular time for home owners to think about and undertake renovations. A renovation can improve the value of your home – but it takes careful planning and research to make sure you get what you want and ensure the work is done on time and within budget.

If you are planning a home renovation, there are important things the Ministry of Consumer Services wants you to keep in mind to protect yourself.

Find a good contractorAsk friends, family or neighbours who have had work done on their homes recently.

Avoid contractors who offer a cash deal.This can be a sign of an unscrupulous business – plus, without a receipt, you have no proof of payment.

Don’t be pressured to sign a contract right away to take advantage of a door-to-door special.

Interview each contractor to determine their qualifications and their "fit" with your project:

• How well-established is the contractor?

• What is the contractor’s reputation?

• Are there complaints against the contractor? Be sure to check their record with the Ministry of Consumer Services’ online Consumer Beware List at www.ontario.ca/ConsumerBeware.

• Does the contractor have experience with the kind of project you have in mind?

• Does the contractor have all required licences for this type of work?

AutumnWatch

36

37

Get an accurate estimateGet an estimate from at least three contractors in person. Don’t deal with a contractor who wants to give you an estimate over the phone or offers you a flat rate without inspecting the job site. Discuss your plans in detail with the contractors. They need a clear picture of what you want to achieve so they can give you an accurate estimate. Plus, they may be able to suggest options that will save you money or increase your satisfaction. Give an indication of your budget so the contractor can provide a realistic response.

Make sure you get everything you agreed to in writing. This includes:

• The total cost

• Start and end dates of the work

• Cost of obtaining any permits that may be required (electrical, plumbing, building, etc.)

• Specifications for particular products (type of flooring, brand of windows, etc.)

• What’s included (or not) – materials, parts, labour

• How any changes will be handled

• Site clean up at the end of the project

• Terms of payment, including deposit, interim or materials payments (if any) and holdback. As a rule of thumb:

- Keep deposits to 10 per cent

- For larger jobs, it’s reasonable for the contractor to demand a series of payments as the work proceeds

- Always keep a holdback – again, 10 per cent is good – until the work has been completed to your satisfaction

• Terms of the warranty

• The builder’s name, address, telephone number and the full name of the person who provided the estimate.

Sign a contractAlways read the fine print – the terms and conditions – before you sign. You may want to have a lawyer or a knowledgeable friend review the contract with you.

If you sign an agreement worth more than $50 in your home, you may cancel within 10 days. Cancel in writing (letter, fax or email) and be sure to keep a copy. If you think there may be a problem, consider sending the cancellation by registered mail so you can prove it was received.

When the job is done, don’t pay more than 10 per cent above the original estimate unless you agreed to the extra charges.

AutumnWatch AutumnWatch

37

Have You Had Your Furnace Inspected?Your furnace needs to be inspected annually by a qualified heating contractor to maintain peak efficiency and protect your family from the dangers of carbon monoxide.

You and fuel safety experts are critical to reducing CO safety risks in your home.

Have a certified fuels technician inspect your gas or oil furnace equipment annually.To ensure a technician is registered, call 1-877-682-TSSA (8772) for confirmation.

MAKING PeoPLe’S LIveS BeTTeR By enhancing Public Safety

www.tssa.org

The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) is an innovative, not-for-profit organization dedicated to enhancing public safety.

Throughout Ontario, TSSA regulates the safety of: amusement rides; elevators and escalators; ski lifts; fuels, including fuel oil, natural gas, petroleum, propane fuels and equipment; boilers and pressure vessels; operating engineers; and upholstered and stuffed articles.

TSSA is there with you each time you get your home furnace inspected, your gas fireplace maintained, and even when you ride an elevator or escalator.

AT TSSA, We PUT PUBLIc SAFeTY FIRST – ALWAYS

FSC Logo

Autumn 2013