12 Days of Holiday Fire Safety
Fire Chief Ed Thiessen and LaSalle Fire Service firefighters have one simple wish this holiday season. “We are wishing for a fire-free holiday season in LaSalle,” said Chief Thiessen. “Together we can make this wish come true!”
The holidays are a busy time, and distractions can lead to tragedy. A pot left on the stove or a candle burning unattended can turn celebrations into heartbreak. “Never leave cooking unattended and consider using battery-operated or flameless candles instead of traditional ones,” said Chief Thiessen.
LaSalle firefighters are also reminding residents to keep smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in working order.
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Install smoke alarms on every storey of your home and outside all sleeping areas.
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Test alarms monthly and replace batteries when needed.
Enjoy a fire safe holiday season with these tips:
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Stay in the kitchen when cooking.
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Drink responsibly. Cooking or smoking while impaired is too often a contributing factor in fatal fires.
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Keep real Christmas trees watered to prevent them from drying out.
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Inspect decorative lights and discard damaged sets.
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Practice a home fire escape plan so everyone knows what to do if alarms sound.
Quick Facts:
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The Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM) data shows the months from November to January experience the highest number of residential fire deaths.
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Cooking remains the top cause of residential fires, while careless smoking remains the top cause of fatal fires.
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Last holiday season (November 2024 to January 2025) saw 24 residential fatal fires resulting in 26 fire deaths.
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Smoke alarms should be tested monthly, batteries replaced annually, and the alarms themselves replaced after 10 years of service.
Contact Us
Town of LaSalle
5950 Malden Road
LaSalle, ON N9H 1S4
T. 519-969-7770
F. 519-969-4469
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