Fire safety and prevention
for residents of Victoria, BC.
Chimney fires can be prevented.
If your are experiencing a fire emergency, DIAL 9-1-1
Fire Prevention Canada is the national voice for fire prevention and education in Canada. Fire prevention week runs from October 7th though October 13th.
Fire prevention reduces the loss during an emergency. Any time you are cooking, baking or having a fire in your fireplace, be sure there is a fire extinguisher near.
If you are looking to have a fire in an outdoor pit, check with your local fire department first.
Fireplace starter kit:
- Excellent Kiln Dried Firewood
- A Fire Extinguisher
- News Paper
- Fire Poker or Chimney Set
- Kindling
- Fire Source
Fire Safety Links
Victoria Chimney Cleaning Service
Before you think about starting a fire in your fireplace, be sure to have a professional inspect and or clean it out. There are many companies who provide chimney cleaning service in Victoria, BC. Visit their websites for an abundance of information related to fireplace and chimney cleaning & maintenance service.
Chimney & Fireplace Maintenance
Modern fireplace inserts are very efficient heating machines but they need some regular maintenance. Be sure to take proper care of your fireplace and have a professional install it. Some great locations to buy fireplaces in Victoria include Heat Savers Fireplace & Patio, Capital Iron or Wilk Stove and if you are out in the Duncan Area check out Granny’s Fireplaces, Pacific Energy or Home Hardware.
Rule 1 – Have a professional come inspect your chimney.
– As fall becomes summer, animals or debris can gather in your chimney. Nests from birds, squirrels or even rats can become a serious fire hazard. Knowing you hired a pro, you will feel better sleeping at night and for us that’s good enough.
Rule #2: Buy fire extinguishers. Actually, that’s rule number one.
– The first and last defense against fire is a fire extinguisher. A split second decision to use it properly can save your house and even save lives. If you don’t have fire extinguishers, check out your local hardware store. Every house should have at least one for common household fires as well as one specifically for grease based fires. For around $150 you can go home fully equipped to take on most small fires. Visit the Canada Fire Safety website for more information on how to use fire extinguishers properly.
Miscellaneous fire safety information you should know
Never use liquid fuel to start and indoor fire.
Use only properly seasoned and dry firewood to heat your home. Unseasoned firewood has a moisture content rating above 22% and can release excess creosote into your chimney.
Recognize the first signs of a chimney fire
Even if you follow every precaution, there is a risk you could still have a chimney fire. If you can recognize the first signs of a chimney fire, there is a chance you stop it before it becomes a serious issue. First signs include: loud sucking roar similar to jet fighter, sucking sounds, shaking pipes, hot spots on your walls, excessive smoke in the home.
Dial 9-1-1 during an emergency
If you notice any of these signs, shut off the air supply, get everyone out of your house and immediate phone your local fire department by calling 9-1-1.
(did you know that the general emergency quick dial number can be different depending on what country you are in?)
Be sure to take the proper precautions and check with your local fire department for fire safety information to ensure you are prepared to heat your home with firewood this season.
