Protection Against Fire

*Note: Statistics mentioned below are taken from NS Dept of Labour, Fire Marshall's Office, Annual Report ending Mar 31, 1998

In Nova Scotia there were 1,138 dwelling fires during this period. These losses totaled $7,974,987 in damages.

Fire: Nothing is more terrifying. The thought of flames racing through your home is probably your worst nightmare. Unfortunately, it is an all-too-frequent occurrence in our country. In Nova Scotia, there were 10 fatalities and 22 injuries. The vast majority of those deaths occur at home.

Tragically, most fires are preventable. The leading cause of fires in the home is faulty heating equipment. A couple of simple measures can ensure that your home heating system is safe. For example, changing your air filter regularly will ensure that your furnace isn't overtaxed. And don't leave piles of newspaper or other combustibles within two feet of your furnace.

Home heating systems are the No. 1 cause of fires in the home in Nova Scotia. 431 losses totaling $1,044,422 in damages.

The No. 2 cause of fires is related to cooking equipment. 161 losses totaling $832,343 in damages. Avoid using open pans or pots of grease on a stove whenever possible. For deep fat frying, use a CSA approved and thermostatically controlled appliance manufactured specifically for deep fat frying.

Cigarettes.  They were responsible for 63 fires causing $963,939 damage. If you do smoke, be sensible. Don't smoke in bed. Use a large metal or glass ashtray. Put that cigarette out with water before you drop it in the trash.

In fact, a little diligence is the key to home safety in general. It may go without saying, but smoke detectors that work, fire extinguishers that are well-charged and easily accessible, and a ladder for the upper floors can save money and lives.