Dryden Fire Chief Ryan Murrell is urging local residents to install working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every storey of their home and outside all sleeping areas.
The reminder follows fatal house fires in eastern Manitoba, Oshawa and Nova Scotia, where a total of nine people were killed, including six children.
Murrell notes a fire moves so fast that you may have less than 60-seconds to safely escape, so early warnings are crucial to survival.
Murrell also recommends that you implement and practice a fire escape plan with everyone in the home.
He stresses all exits must be unobstructed and easy to use.
Simple smoke and carbon monoxide alarm tips:
-Install smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas of your home. For added
protection, install a smoke alarm in every bedroom according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
-Install carbon monoxide alarms outside all sleeping areas if your home has a fuel-burning appliance,
fireplace or attached garage.
-Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly by pressing the test button. Change the batteries
every year.
Simple steps for home fire escape planning include:
-Everyone should know two ways out of each room, if possible.
-All exits must be unobstructed and easy to use.
-Practice your home fire escape plan.
-Once out, stay out. Never re-enter a burning building.