October brings crisp mornings, colourful canopies, and the annual push to get our homes ready for winter. As you begin fall cleaning, home maintenance, and seasonal organizing, we’re focusing this month’s safety message on preventing the most common autumn hazards. A few thoughtful steps now can reduce emergency calls later and help keep our community safe through the colder months.
Heating System & Furnace Safety
With furnaces running more frequently, make sure your heating equipment is in good working order.
- Schedule a furnace inspection by a licensed technician to remove dust and debris that can ignite.
- Replace filters to improve air quality and reduce strain on the system.
- Keep the area around your furnace clear of boxes, paint cans, and cleaning supplies.
- Check and clean vents and registers to ensure airflow isn’t blocked.
Chimney & Fireplace Cleaning
As temperatures drop, many households begin using fireplaces again — and that makes chimney maintenance essential.
A dirty or damaged chimney is one of the leading causes of preventable home fires. Creosote, a highly flammable residue, builds up inside chimneys over time. When fireplaces are used without proper cleaning, that buildup can ignite and cause a fast moving chimney fire.
- Schedule an annual chimney sweep by a certified professional before your first fire of the season.
- Inspect your chimney cap to ensure it’s secure and free of debris.• Check for cracks in masonry or metal liners.
- Burn only dry, seasoned wood to reduce creosote buildup – never ever burn holiday wrapping paper!
- Keep a screen or glass barrier in front of your fireplace to prevent sparks.
A clean chimney not only reduces fire risk — it improves heating efficiency and keeps smoke out of your home.
Declutter to Reduce Fire Hazards
Fall cleaning is a great opportunity to remove items that create unnecessary risk.
- Clear storage rooms and keep pathways open.
- Dispose of old chemicals like paint, solvents, expired bear spray and cleaners at approved facilities – reminder, the firehall doesn’t accept these items!
- Store holiday décor safely in dry, labeled containers.
- Donate unused items to reduce overcrowded basements and closets.
A tidy home improves escape routes and helps responders navigate more easily during emergencies.
Electrical & Appliance Safety
As you move furniture and clean behind appliances:
- Inspect cords for fraying or heat damage.
- Vacuum behind refrigerators and dryers to remove dust and lint.
- Ensure outlets aren’t overloaded with seasonal décor or heaters.
- Clean your dryer vent — lint buildup remains a leading cause of home fires.
Outdoor Fall Cleanup
- Rake leaves away from your home.
- Clean gutters to prevent ice dams.
- Store firewood at least 10 metres from your house.
- Trim branches hanging over roofs or power lines.
Emergency Preparedness
- Test smoke & CO alarms. If they expire before year end, buy and install them early to prevent them alerting for end of life in the middle of a dark winter night.
- Review and practice your home escape plan with all family members, including holiday visitors.
- Restock your emergency kit with cold weather supplies and put a winter emergency kit in your vehicle.
- Schedule your vehicle for an annual check up to ensure it’s ready for winter driving.
- Ensure house numbers are easily visible in the dark for first responders.
Until next month, Stay safe!
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