Winter weather can bring strong winds and snowstorms that may knock out your power. These conditions can also damage power lines and equipment, making it easier for a spark to turn into a flame. Use the following safety tips from Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service to help protect yourself, your family and your home from fires during and after a storm.

Before a winter storm and power outage

• Hard-wired (electrically connected) smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms will not work when the power is out unless they have battery backups. Therefore, ensure you have battery-operated smoke and CO alarms outside all sleeping areas in your home and are testing them at least once a month.
• Use special alarms for those who are hard of hearing or deaf – these alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
• Make sure you have a working fire extinguisher.
• Ensure there are no cords under rugs or carpets where heat might build up or damage to a cord may go unnoticed.
• Vacuum or dust coils and wires from your refrigerator, computers and phone lines. A buildup of lint and dust can be a fire hazard.
• Plan and practise your home escape plan (PDF) before emergencies happen. Everyone should know how to get out immediately if there is a fire.

 During a winter storm and power outage

• Turn off all tools, appliances and electronic equipment, such as stoves, microwaves and toasters.
• Turn the thermostat(s) for your home heating system down to a low setting to prevent damage from a power surge when it is restored.
• Never use a gas-powered generator indoors or in a wet environment if your power goes out. CO gas is odourless, invisible and extremely toxic and is produced by gas-powered generators.
• Use flashlights – not candles – for emergency lighting.
• Be aware of and avoid downed utility lines. Report fallen or damaged power lines to Alectra Utilities at 1-833-253-2872.

 After a winter storm and power outage

• Ensure all household appliances and electronics are unplugged before turning on the main electric switch. This will prevent damage from a power surge.
• Turn the heating system thermostats up first. After a few minutes, reconnect your refrigerator and freezer.
• Give the electrical system time to stabilize before reconnecting other tools and appliances.
• Have a licensed electrician check for damage if you are concerned about wires in your home. 

For more information about planning for an emergency, visit vaughan.ca/EmergencyPlanning. For further fire prevention tips, visit vaughan.ca/fire. If your power goes out, visit Alectra Utilities’ website for outage details or call 1-833-253-2872 for more information. 

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