News
Public Notice
The holidays are a time for celebration, but they can also bring added fire risks. Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) is encouraging everyone to take a few simple steps to keep homes and families safe.
“Checking your smoke alarms and keeping decorations away from heat sources are small actions that make a big difference,” says Deputy Chief Alan Hofsink. “A little planning goes a long way toward a safe and happy holiday season.”
Holiday safety tips
- Inspect lights for damaged cords or loose connections and replace if needed
- Use clips — not nails — to hang lights and avoid damaging cords
- Choose flame-resistant or flame-retardant decorations
Heat source safety
- Keep anything that can burn at least 1 metre away from heating equipment, including furnaces, fireplaces, wood stoves, and space heaters
- Follow manufacturer guidelines when using space heaters
- Turn off space heaters when leaving a room or going to be
- Never use your oven to heat your home
Extra precautions
- Avoid overloading electrical outlets
- Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional
- Dispose of used batteries safely — never in the trash. Take them to a local recycling depot.
Have a safe and happy holiday season.