Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
Your landlord must install working smoke alarms on every level and carbon monoxide alarms near sleeping areas.
Never disable an alarm. It is unsafe and against the law.
Test alarms once a month by pressing the test button. Check the manufacturer's date; alarms older than 10 years should be replaced.
Review this fire safety resource for tips on preventing fires and staying safe in off-campus housing.
Fire safety basics (PDF, 338 KB)Evacuation planning
Know your exits. Review the building's floor plan so everyone knows all possible exits from each room. Choose a main exit route and a backup route for every room.
If you live in an apartment, plan to use the stairs, not the elevators, during an evacuation. If you can't use the stairs, tell emergency personnel as soon as they arrive.
Keep exits clear and accessible. Make sure all doors and windows open easily from the inside. If you have security bars, choose ones with quick-release devices and ensure everyone knows how to use them.
Make a simple fire emergency plan with your housemates. Pick a safe, visible meeting spot outside, far enough from the house but easy to find. Use this resource to map out your routes and meeting points.
Evacuation planning toolsFire safety at home
Keep candles away from anything that can burn, such as clothing, books, curtains, or decorations. Check cords for fraying or damage. Damaged cords can spark or shock. Avoid 'octopus outlets'. If a cord or plug feels hot, the circuit is overloaded.
Space heaters are a major cause of winter fires. Keep them in plain sight. Maintain 3 feet of space around them (no blankets, curtains or clothing nearby). Never place anything on top of a heater. Turn heaters off and unplugged before leaving the room or going to sleep.
Make sure vents for the furnace, hot water tank and dryer are not blocked.
Safe cooking practices
Cooking is the leading cause of house fires. Adopt these tips to minimize the risk of a cooking-related fire.
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Never pour water on a grease fire. It will flare up. Cover the pan with a metal lid or baking tray and turn off the heat. Use baking soda to smother small grease fires.
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Stay present. Never leave the kitchen when something is on the stove or in the oven.
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Unplug small appliances when not in use to reduce fire risk.
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Don't store propane tanks indoors. Use BBQs at least 3 meters away from the house.
City of Kingston Home Fire Safety
Visit this link for information on fire prevention and how to protect yourself
Kingston Fire & Rescue Facebook
Stay up to date with local fire news and get practical tips on how to prevent common fires at home.
Most Common Causes of Fires in Kingston
View this PDF to learn about the most common causes of fire.