[Presented by the Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services]

Make this holiday season a memorable one for your loved ones by keeping them fire safe. Statistics from the Ontario Office of Fire Marshal indicate that fire incidents are on a rise during the holiday months of November, December and January.
Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services (MFES) wants you to follow these simple and preventative safety measures and be prepared during the festive season.

Smoke alarms save lives

Ensure you have working smoke alarms on every storey of your home. Test your smoke alarms once a month and remember to replace the batteries. Smoke alarms should be replaced if they are more than 10 years old.

Have working carbon monoxide alarms
Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odourless gas that can quickly kill you. If you have a fuel burning appliance or fire place you need to ensure carbon monoxide alarms are adjacent to the sleeping areas in your home.

Create and practise a home escape plan
Make sure everyone knows two ways out and how to get out safely if a fire occurs. Once outside, stay outside and call 9-1-1 from a cell phone or neighbours house.

Blow out lit candles

Always blow out candles before leaving the room or going to bed. Keep lit candles at a safe distance from pets, children and anything that can catch fire easily. Use battery operated candles to light up your house and stay safe.

Water your real Christmas tree
Make sure to water your tree every day or put the base of the trunk in water at all times. Place the tree at a safe distance from your fireplace, heaters or candles.

Be alert in the kitchen

Cooking fires most commonly occur when cooking is left unattended. Always stay in the kitchen while cooking and don’t forget to turn off the stove when you are done.

Fire prevention starts with you, so be prepared and have a great holiday season.

For more information on Fire Prevention, visit the Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services webpage or follow us on twitter @MississaugaFES.