The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
In the Christmas Season it is important to practice and make time for safety. Why? To avoid the dangers of carelessness during a time of happiness and celebration, when most people are relaxed and not alert as usual. The Fire Place Obviously such routines such as using only suitable fuels, avoiding over-firing and keeping screens or doors closed need to be observed. As well, it is wise to be alert for the special precautions that are necessary due to the presence of combustible gift wrappings, and children who Ð given the circumstances Ð may be more exuberant than normal. Be aware that if paper is introduced into a lighted fireplace, it may result in rapidly developing flames, which quite probably will gush out the opening and ignite other combustibles. Fire Safe Toys When performing chores on behalf of Santa, protect the little ones and give yourself gift wrapped peace of mind by taking care to ensure the toys you buy do not use flammable liquids or otherwise burn readily and that electrical toys bears a label of approval. Festive Parties Is a party with family and friends part of your plans for the holidays? If so, decorate by using non-combustible or fire retardant treated decorations. Remember, smokers need watches! When the party is over check carefully for cigarette/cigar butts and ashes, especially in upholstered furniture. Finally, just in case small children may rise before you, be sure matches and lighters are out of reach and out of sight! Smoke Alarms Ensure correctly located, installed, and maintained working smoke alarms are on each level of your home and cottage, outside sleeping areas, and inside the bedrooms. If you don't have these life saving devices, make them an "open early" gift of safety to your family. Escape Plan Families are also urged to review their home/cottage fire-escape plan for quick exit in an emergency. Remember, know two ways out of each room and have a meeting place outside. If fire strikes, get out and stay out! Call the fire department from a neighbour's house. Remember, if you never need what you learn about personal safety, you have lost nothing. But if you never learn what you need, you may lose everything.
