Keep ‘sparks’ in check this Valentine’s Day!

Don't put fire safety on the back burner

As you plan to celebrate Valentine's Day, make sure love is the only thing in the air! Celebrate safely and without worry by following fire prevention tips from Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS).

If you're making a homecooked meal from the heart, remember to:

• stay in the kitchen while cooking. If you must step away from the stove, turn it off and wait for it to cool down. Remove all items from the stovetop when you are finished cooking.
• avoid all distractions and focus on the task in front of you.
• avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing as it can catch on fire.
• keep flammable items - like oven mitts, cooking utensils, dish cloths, paper towels and potholders - a safe distance from the stove.
• keep pets and young kids away from the stove and turn pot handles away from the stove's edge to avoid them being knocked over accidentally.
• use a heat-resistant surface to cool down hot cookware.
• keep a working 'ABC' or 'BC' fire extinguisher in the kitchen.
• ensure your home has working smoke alarms and test all alarms at least once a month by pressing the test button.
• develop a home escape plan so everyone in your household knows what to do if an emergency occurs.

In case of a grease or oil fire, smother the flames by completely covering the pan or deep fryer with a large metal lid, cooking sheet or flat tray. Never use water to put out a grease or oil fire - it will cause the fire to spread.

Planning to decorate the dinner table with candles? Always use non-flammable candle holders and place candles where they will not be knocked down, away from paper decorations, tablecloths and napkins. Never leave candles unattended and keep them out of reach of children and pets. A better alternative is to use battery-powered flameless candles or candle warmers.

For more information and fire safety tips, visit vaughan.ca/fire.

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