Here's how to prevent the risk of fire in your new home
While many Montrealers will take up residence in new accommodation at the end of moving day, the Fire Department of Montreal (SIM) reminds the population of the behaviors to adopt in order to prevent the risk of fire in their new home.
One smoke alarm (functional) per floor
In order to detect any outbreak of flames in your home, a smoke and carbon monoxide alarm is required. The SIM reminds that residential buildings built before 1985 must be equipped with smoke alarms connected to an electrical system or equipped with a 10-year long life non-removable lithium battery. Dwellings erected after this date must be equipped with smoke alarms connected to an electrical system.
Citizens are invited to check the condition of the smoke alarms present in their new dwelling and carry out tests. In the case of an apartment with several floors, one detector per level is required, indicates the SIM.
Connect securely
You have just unpacked your boxes and it’s time to connect your equipment? Be careful. The SIM, as a general rule, advises against the permanent use of extension cords. In addition, these devices should be replaced as soon as signs of wear or damage are observed.
If you wish to plug several appliances into the same circuit, a multi-outlet adapter with a built-in circuit breaker is strongly recommended. The SIM also asks the population to use flexible cords of good gauge for appliances that require a lot of energy. This is particularly the case with air conditioning units.
Finally, the SIM reminds that all electrical installations and repairs must be carried out by an electrician.
Beware of combustible materials
< p>In view of the risks posed by these substances, the SIM calls on citizens not to accumulate and store combustible materials and flammable liquids inside their homes.
Also, your oven and stove should never be used as storage spaces, says the SIM. And even temporarily.
Finally, devices with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries must be placed in a place protected by a smoke alarm.
A fire extinguisher in the right place
The SIM recommends the installation of one or more “A, B, C” type powder extinguishers. These should be placed in an accessible place, but out of the reach of children, and away from appliances that could cause a fire to start in your home, such as your stove or heating appliances.
Leave the way clear
SIM stresses the importance of ensuring that that your new home has escape routes and that they remain clear at all times. This can include balconies, emergency exits, stairwells or even corridors, say the professionals. In addition, it is recommended that you draw up an evacuation plan for your new address, in case a fire breaks out.
All members of the household must be informed. It is also wise to set up simulation exercises several times a year, says the SIM.
