Short days and long nights mark the arrival of the holiday season in Newfoundland and Labrador. Safely deal with the chilly winter weather by taking these precautions:
Heating
- When using a space heater, inspect the cord and ensure it is not damaged; Always plug a space heater directly into an outlet and do not use an extension cord;
- Always keep at least one metre of space around a space heater and never leave a space heater running in an unoccupied room;
- Never dry shoes or clothes by placing them on a heater or wood stove;
- Ensure no flammable materials, especially paint and gasoline, have been stored near your source of heating; and
- Always supervise children and pets around sources of heat.
Winter hazards
- Never use an appliance that burns fuel inside as this will generate deadly carbon monoxide. Equip your home with carbon monoxide detectors;
- Only operate a generator in a clean, dry, well-ventilated area;
- Never use any open-flame device to thaw a frozen pipe. Call a licensed plumber;
- Clear snow from all exterior entrances of your home which are your means of escape in the event of a fire or an emergency.
- Check on seniors or other residents in your neighbourhood who may need assistance with clearing entrances to their homes of snow and materials;
- Equip your car with an emergency kit; and
- Prepare a 72-hour emergency kit for your home.
Information regarding general emergency preparedness is available at getprepared.gc.ca.
Follow the department on Twitter @MAE_GovNL for more holiday safety tips during the holiday season.
The Department of Municipal Affairs and Environment wishes all residents a safe and happy holiday season. Thank you to all firefighters, fire departments, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Fire Services for your dedication throughout the year.