Port Coquitlam is calling for extra caution with candles, decorations and heaters this holiday season as the months of December through February are the worst for fires.
This past year Port Coquitlam firefighters responded to more than 200 fires, of which 53 were structural fires with the remaining balanced between wildland fires, vehicle fires, electrical fires and explosions.
Typically, there are between four and nine house fires every year, and with Christmas fast approaching, residents should take note of the following tips provided by Port Coquitlam Fire and Emergency Services.
When using portable electric space heaters
- Purchase a heater that has a CSA or ULC approved seal
- Keep the heater at least one metre (3 feet) away from anything that could catch fire or burn such as drapes, clothes, papers, people and pets
- Always turn off and unplug the space heater when you leave the room or go to bed
Holiday decorating
- Make sure the tree is at least one metre away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights
- If using a real tree, purchase one with green needles that are hard to pull from branches, and keep it watered
- Choose flame resistant or flame retardant decorations
- Blow out lit candles prior to leaving a room or going to bed, and always supervise children around lit candles
- Only use lights outside that are designed and CSA approved for outdoor use and fully intact strings of lights without loose bulb connectors or broken or frayed wires
- Use clips to hang holiday lights, as staples may damage electrical cords
- Unplug lights when not in use or overnight to decrease risk of electrical fires
Holiday Cooking
- When cooking, do not leave your stove unattended and monitor nearby children
- Stay in the kitchen at all times. Keep a close eye on the food, especially if you are frying
- Keep things that can catch fire, such as towels, packaging, oven mitts and wooden utensils away from the cooking area
For more information on holiday safety, visit portcoquitlam.ca/fire or call 604-927-5466.
