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Happy first day of summer! Whether going on a road trip to a cottage, camping or just spending time in your backyard this season, make fire prevention a part of your plans. Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service has the following tips to help you enjoy outdoor fires, barbecues and other activities safely.
Outdoor fireplaces, chimineas and fuel-burning appliances
Constantly supervise the fire unit when in use and follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions. Just in case, keep a method of fire snuffing nearby (e.g. a fire extinguisher, pail of water, garden hose, etc.) and avoid using an outdoor fireplace in high winds.
Barbecues
When using charcoal grills, only use charcoal briquettes (a compressed chunk of coal dust or charcoal) explicitly designed for that purpose and charcoal lighting fluids to ignite. Sprinkle the briquettes with lighter fluid and allow it to soak in, then wait approximately 10 minutes. Never add fluid after igniting the barbecue, and never use gasoline to light a barbecue.
Smoking
RVs, trailers and campers
When using propane in your RV or camper, keep all combustion exhaust vents on the exterior wall and make sure they are clear of obstructions. Your RV or camper needs to be adequately ventilated to prevent buildup of carbon monoxide. It’s always a good idea to install a carbon monoxide alarm and propane leak detector.
For more information about fire tips and prevention, visit vaughan.ca/fire.
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