Fires

If there is a possibility that a wildfire will effect your home, listen to a battery-powered radio for reports and evacuation information.

Home fires are one of the most common types of emergencies. As well as being very dangerous, a fire can leave you homeless and without possessions.

Home fires

The following are suggestions from various fire departments regarding fire prevention and preparation.

What should I do to protect my home from fires?

What should I do if my home is on fire?

For more information, please contact your local fire department.

Wildfires

What is the danger from a wildfire?

Canadians experience almost 8,000 wildfires each year (Ministry of Natural Resources). The average area burned in Canada each year due to wildfires is 2.5 million hectares. Wildfires are also known as forest fires, brush fires, bush fires, and grass fires.

Wildfires and their smoke are extremely dangerous. The fire can move faster than a person can run and the smoke contains particulate matter such as soot, smoke, and ash that can release toxic chemicals. Respiratory damage may result from breathing in smoke and fumes. The smallest of these particles can enter deep into the lungs, access the bloodstream, and affect the heart.

What should I do if there is the possibility that a wildfire may affect my home?

Here are some proactive strategies to fire proof the surroundings of your home, camp, cottage, or trailer before a fire strikes. These strategies can provide valuable time in the event of an emergency, slow a fire, or help redirect it.

If it is safe, and there is time before the fire arrives, consider taking the following action:


This item was last modified on May 14, 2024