36 P0031-LU-01.00
5.
Fire Safety and System Maintenance
Fire Safety
Household Fire Safety Audit
Most fires occur in the home. To minimise the risk of fire, it is recommended that a
household safety audit is conducted and a fire escape plan is developed.
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Are all electrical appliances and outlets in a safe condition? Check for frayed power
leads, overloaded lighting circuits, etc. If you are uncertain about the condition of your
electrical appliances or household service, have a professional evaluate these units.
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Are all flammable liquids stored safely in closed containers in a well ventilated cool
area? Cleaning with flammable liquids should be avoided.
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Are fire hazardous materials (matches and lighters) well out of reach of children?
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Are heating boilers and wood burning appliances properly installed, clean and in good
working order? Have a professional evaluate these appliances.
Fire Escape Planning
There is often very little time between the detection of a fire and the time it becomes deadly.
It is therefore very important that a family escape plan be developed and rehearsed.
Every family member should participate in developing the escape plan.
Study the possible escape routes from each location within the house. Since many fires
occur at night, special attention should be given to the escape routes from sleeping
quarters.
Escape from a bedroom must be possible without opening the interior door. Consider the
following when making your escape plans:
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Make sure that all perimeter doors and windows are easily opened. Ensure that they
are not painted shut and that their locking mechanisms operate smoothly.
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If opening or using the exit is too difficult for children, the elderly or handicapped, plans
for rescue should be developed. This includes making sure that those who are to
perform the rescue can promptly hear the fire warning signal.
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If the exit is above the ground level, an approved fire ladder or rope should be provided
as well as training in its use.
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Exits on the ground level should be kept clear. Be sure to remove snow from exterior
patio doors in winter; outdoor furniture or equipment should not block exits.
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Each person should know of a predetermined assembly point where everyone can be
accounted for i.e. across the street or at a neighbour's house. Once everyone is out of
the building, call the Fire Services.
