Small Business
Familiarize yourself with escape routes and exits. Plan ahead for your safety
and the safety of those who may need your help, but leave the firefighting and
rescue to the Fire Department. An hour of planning may save lives. Make fire
drills and checks a regular habit.
Enforce smoking rules. If smoking is allowed, designate smoking areas, and be
sure staff and clients are aware of the restrictions. Post "NO SMOKING" signs,
and provide large, deep, non-tip ashtrays. Dispose of the contents often,
wetting them before dumping into metal containers.
Electrical Equipment
Replace cracked or frayed electrical cords. Never pinch electrical cords under
furniture or run them under carpets across doorways, or any place where they
will be stepped on.
Do not plug one extension cord into another or plug more than one extension cord
into an outlet. Unplug any electrical equipment that overheats or gives off
unusual orders and have it repaired. Have routine electrical inspections by a
qualified electrician, and always use CSA/ULC approved products.
Heating, Ventilating & Air Conditioners
Have regular maintenance performed on these types of equipment to ensure they
are working properly. This includes solid fuel burning appliances as well, such
as wood stoves and fireplaces.
Eliminate Clutter
Keep combustible materials from accumulating in quantities or locations that may
constitute a fire hazard. Keep them clear from heat producing devices, even
reading lamps, and keep halls, stairways, and especially exits, clear of clutter
at all times.
Store flammable liquids, such as gasoline outside your facility in well
ventilated but secure areas. Always use approved safety containers, never glass.
Always handle flammable liquids with care and follow instructions on containers.
Use gasoline only as a motor fuel, never as a cleaning agent.
Install and Maintain Smoke Detectors
Install smoke detectors on every level of your home or establishment and
especially outside sleeping areas, but away from cooking areas.
Test smoke detectors monthly.
Install new batteries at least once a year or when your detector "chirps" to
warn you that battery power is low. Be sure to clean your detectors regularly,
following manufacturer's instructions.
Replace any smoke detector that is more than 10 years old.
Fire Extinguishers
Keep and maintain a multipurpose (ABC) fire extinguisher on a wall at eye level
and near an exit. Train staff members to operate a portable fire extinguisher.
Extinguishers can be purchased at hardware stores, department stores, and fire
service equipment companies.
Maintain Exits
Keep emergency doors closed, but not locked from the inside. Never wedge them
open. Keep exits clear and be sure that EXIT signs are visible at all times.
For more detailed information on these fire safety tips, or to arrange a fire
inspection and ask about other Fire Code requirements please contact:
Fire Prevention Division
400 Horton Street, London Ontario N6B 1L7
(519) 661-4565.