This is the Leading Cause of Fires in Brampton

Published August 14, 2018 at 8:34 pm

From commercial property fires to residential fires, fires are dangerous in any circumstance. But there are ways to prevent them, and knowledge can sometimes be the key.

From commercial property fires to residential fires, fires are dangerous in any circumstance. But there are ways to prevent them, and knowledge can sometimes be the key.

More specifically, knowing what can cause a fire and knowing how to prevent it.

There are a few main causes of fires in Brampton, according to recently released data from Brampton Fire and Emergency Services (BFES).

Those include barbecuing or cooking in the garage, and even improperly discarded smoking materials.

But the biggest cause of fires in Brampton is actually unattended cooking.

In fact, between 30 and 40 per cent of all fires in Brampton start in the kitchen, and most cooking fires involve the stove top, according to BFES.

So, how can you be cautious and prevent cooking fires?

There are some best practices, courtesy of BFES.

Being on alert, not using the stove or stovetop if you’ve consumed alcohol or are sleepy, staying in the kitchen if you’re frying, grilling, or broiling food, and turning off the stove even if you leave the kitchen for a short period of time are just some safety tips.

And if you’re simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.

Anything that could catch fire – like oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains – should also stay away from your stovetop.
BFES also advises that you avoid distractions such as watching television, texting or social media while cooking.

Here are some more tips, courtesy of BFES:

  • Never use barbecues or other cookers in your garage.
  • Install smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas of your home.
  • For added protection, install a smoke alarm in every bedroom according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly by pressing the test button. Change the batteries every year.
  • Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms wear out over time. Replace alarms according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • If you smoke, stay alert, and use deep ashtrays

This is all well and good for preventing fires, but if you have a fire, BFES has some more tips on what to do.

First, you should leave your home and close the door behind you to contain the fire.

Calling 9-1-1 is a definite next step. If you try to fight the fire, let others out ahead of you and ensure you have a clear way out, too.

It might also be helpful to always keep a lid nearby to smother small grease fires. You can do that by sliding the lid over the pan and turning off the stovetop. Then leave the pan covered until it has completely cooled.

For oven fires in particular, you’re advised to turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Stay safe, Brampton.

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