News Release Archive
LABOUR--FIRE MARSHAL-CHRISTMAS SAFETY
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Every Nova Scotian should add fire safety to their Christmas
"to do" list this year, advise Labour Minister Guy Brown and
Fire Marshal Bob Cormier. For example, they say, put a smoke
alarm under the tree as a gift for friends or family.
"The best way to fight a fire is to prevent it from
happening in the first place," said the minister. "I
encourage everyone to take a few minutes to think about fire
safety during this busy time of year."
Last year, there were approximately 2,000 fires in Nova
Scotian homes. "The personal suffering and loss caused by
fire is even more devastating during the holidays," said the
minister. "Let's make this season happy and fire safe."
Here are the fire marshal's fire safety tips for the
Christmas season:
- Make sure natural trees are fresh. Watch for yellow
needles and brittle branches.
- Before putting up a tree, re-cut the butt and place it in
a sturdy stand with at least one gallon of fresh water.
Check the water level daily.
- Keep the tree away from direct heat sources, exits and
high traffic areas.
- Artificial trees should be fire resistant. Trees with
aluminum or steel frames conduct electricity and should not
be decorated with strings of lights.
- Keep cigarettes, candles or any open flame away from the
tree.
- Disconnect tree lights at least 15 minutes before leaving
the house or going to bed.
- Natural trees dry out in about 10-15 days and should be
removed soon after Christmas.
- Make sure all tree lighting is approved by the Canadian
Standards Association (CSA).
- Bulbs should be compatible with the light set.
- Check for loose connections, bad sockets and plugs,
damaged wiring or other defects.
- Do not use indoor lights or extension cords outside.
Outdoor cords and lighting must be CSA approved for outdoor
use.
- Do not run extension cords under rugs or across doorways
where they could become worn or broken.
- Do not staple interior lights to walls or window frames.
- Do not overload circuits.
- Promptly remove wrapping paper and boxes from under the
tree.
- Do not burn gift wrap in stoves or fireplaces. It creates
sudden, extreme heat which can cause chimney fires.
- Keep a portable fire extinguisher in a clearly visible and
accessible location.
- Make sure smoke alarms are installed and in working order.
The Department of Labour includes the Office of the Fire
Marshal which inspects buildings, investigates fires, and
works with local fire departments on prevention and
education initiatives.
Labour Minister Guy Brown, Fire Marshal Bob Cormier and
everyone at the department wish all Nova Scotians a safe and
happy holiday season.
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Contact: Bob Cormier 902-424-5721
Jennifer MacIsaac 902-424-4680 or 902-424-3219
trp Dec. 19, 1995
