Serving up safety: Fire prevention tips to make the most of your summer

Warmer weather and longer days can increase the risk of fire-related hazards. From backyard barbeques and outdoor lights to dry grass and lithium-ion batteries, it’s important to stay alert and practise fire safety to keep yourself, your loved ones, your property, and your neighbourhood safe.

Sizzle up the grill with these barbeque safety hacks

Backyard barbeques and the sizzling sound and smell of food can bring people together whether during the holidays or on days when the weather is pleasant. Whether you’re grilling food for yourself or a large group of people, always keep your barbeque at least three feet away from structures, trees and other flammable or combustible materials like patio furniture. After cooking, allow the barbeque to cool down completely before closing the lids and storing it away.

If your situation isn’t ideal for grilling outside, consider using alternatives like an air fryer or a smokeless indoor grill. You can enjoy great taste, with less risks.

Have a balcony in a condo? Check with your property manager to confirm if barbeques are permitted.

For those using propane tanks, remember to store your tanks upright and away from direct sunlight or other heat sources. Check for any leaks in the hose or cracks on the tank. If you decide that you prefer using a charcoal grill, remember to use starter fluid and not gasoline. When you are done grilling, remember to let the coals completely cool in a metal container, like a can.

Remember, never leave a grill unattended, and make sure the lid is open before lighting. Need to step away for a quick second? Ask someone for help. Do not ask children or vulnerable people to look after a grill while it’s on.

If you are having a backyard get-together, remember, if you have guests who smoke, provide an ash tray in a designated area of your house or outdoors away from flammable items. Ensure that butts are extinguished as a single spark on dry grass or wood surfaces can ignite a fire.

Download the BBQ safety guide.

Fireside fun with outdoor spaces

If you’ve set up a perfect outdoor space to enjoy the weather, remember to keep them decluttered from food wrappers, cardboard and other combustible or flammable materials. If you have decorated your space with candles, outdoor lighting or a fireplace remember to keep an eye on these items. Never leave burning candles or a fireplace/firepit unattended or use lights outdoors that don’t have an outdoor rating.

Open air fire safety

Open air burning is allowed in Mississauga, but you may need a permit. If you’re setting or maintaining a fire in any open place, yard, field or construction area not enclosed by a building or structure – you’ll need to apply for a permit!

You don’t need a permit between sunrise and 11 p.m. if you’re using:

• Chimineas
• Outdoor fireplaces
• Outdoor appliances
• Outdoor fire pits
• Smoke houses
• Cooking fires

Ensure they are not more than one metre in dimension, and are located five metres away from combustible, flammable materials, or property lines, for your safety and that of your neighbours.

If you think someone has an outdoor fire burning without a permit, you can call Mississauga’s fire services non-emergency line at 905-456-5700.

Learn more about open air burning.

Power up your knowledge on Lithium-ion battery safety

Everyday rechargeable devices like cell phones, portable fans, laptops, power tools, vacuums, e-bikes, e-scooters, wheelchairs, hoverboards, lawnmowers and electric vehicles use lithium-ion batteries. Whether you have one or more of these appliances or devices, it’s important to follow safety precautions.

You can also consider renting Mississauga’s shared e-scooters and e-bikes if you are looking for a sustainable way of getting around the city.

Just remember, with hotter weather the risk of lithium-ion battery fires can also increase. Take a moment to refresh your memory about staying safe when using these devices and remember to charge up safely!

Read more about lithium-ion battery safety tips.

Watch for dry conditions

Canadian summers can be hot and dry, and it’s important that everyone understands the risk of how weather conditions can increase risk of wildfires in Mississauga. Never discard cigarette butts on the ground or out of car windows, keep lawns trimmed and clear of dry brush, and avoid using equipment like lawnmowers on extremely dry days, as they can spark fires.

Protect your home

Check that smoke alarms are working and have fresh batteries. Store flammable items like gasoline and propane tanks safely outdoors in well-ventilated areas. If you have a fire extinguisher, make sure it’s charged and accessible. Not sure how to use an extinguisher in case of a fire? Follow these safety tips to use and maintain your extinguisher.

By following these simple steps, you can help ensure a safe and risk-free summer season for everyone.

Tags

• Fire and Emergency Services