Welcome to Stop The Fire.org! Gold Seal Master Builder is proud to be a part of such an important initiative. As a Volunteer Firefighter I have witnessed the devastation and loss experienced by the victims of fire. Whether you are a Professional in the Fire Service, home construction industry, a new home buyer, or planning a renovation, you may have some questions regarding fire sprinklers.

The number one concern I hear is that sprinklers are going to cause a flood once engaged.Hollywood has done a great job creating this myth. Often times a character in the movie engages a sprinkler head with a cigarette lighter and the next thing you know, every sprinkler head is flowing water and making a mess of things. The fact is that, in a residential system, only the sprinkler heads closest to the fire engage. Usually only one head is needed to slow the fire’s progress or completely snuff it out. (more…)

To minimize the risk of fire and burn injuries this Victoria Day weekend, the Vaughan Fire & Rescue is urging residents to include fire safety into their plans.

“Family fireworks or informal neighbourhood displays are not recommended,” says Ontario Fire Marshal Pat Burke.  “Instead families and friends are urged to attend fireworks displays hosted by municipalities. Fireworks are extremely dangerous and should be left to fireworks professionals who are trained to handle and discharge them safely.”

“For those traveling to cottages, cabins and seasonal homes, consider purchasing new smoke alarms and batteries in case they need replacing when you arrive. It’s the law for all Ontario homes, cottages, cabins and seasonal homes to have working smoke alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas. If you have a fuel-burning appliance in your seasonal dwelling, check your carbon monoxide alarm,” says Fire Chief Greg Senay. “We want everyone to enjoy this long weekend, and that includes staying safe.” (more…)

With warm and sunny weather fast approaching and the long weekend around the corner, I want to ensure everyone remembers to be fire safe.  For those of you planning to visit the cottage – and likely, you haven’t done so since last year – I strongly encourage you to test your smoke detectors and replace your batteries if necessary. As well, many of us have emergency escape plans for our home, but what about at the cottage? For your convenience, we have a family evacuation plan template to help you map this out. Lastly, many of us recognize this time of year as barbecue season.  Below are some key pointers to know before starting up the grill:

BBQ Setup & Safety Tips

• Make sure you set up your barbecue on a flat area well away from combustible materials including: siding, fences, deck railings, sheds, and overhanging branches
• Do not use your barbecue indoors or in a tent, or high levels of carbon monoxide can form
• Thoroughly clean the burner with a wire brush before lighting the barbecue
• Light barbecues with a long match or mechanical lighter designed for lighting barbecues
• Ensure children are aware of the dangers of matches, lighters and gasoline, and always keep these items out of reach
• Use long-handled grilling tools to ensure distance from heat and flames
  
• Always allow the barbecue to cool before attempting to move it
• Never leave a barbecue unattended

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