5 Fire Safety Tips Every Renter Should Know
2 min read.
Fire safety might not be the first thing on your mind when you move into a new rental, but it should be. Whether you’re living in a high-rise apartment or a cozy basement suite, taking a few precautions can make all the difference in keeping you and your space safe. In this article, we cover five simple steps you can take to ensure your safety.
Test Smoke Alarms Regularly
Smoke alarms are your first line of defence in a fire. Ensure there is one in every sleeping area and the hallways outside the bedrooms. Once a month, press the test button to ensure it works, and notify your landlord immediately if the batteries are dead or the unit isn’t functioning. Most provinces require landlords to provide working alarms, but tenants are often responsible for testing and maintaining them.
Know Your Escape Plan
Every rental unit should have at least two exits in case of an emergency. Take a moment to walk through these routes and ensure the windows and doors open easily. If you’re in a multi-unit building, learn where the stairwells are and avoid using the elevator during a fire. Share your plan with roommates or family members and practice it, especially if you live on an upper floor.
Cook with Caution
Kitchens are the most common source of residential fires. Never leave cooking unattended, especially when using oil or high heat. Keep flammable items like towels, paper, and curtains away from the stove. If a small grease fire starts, don’t pour water on it; cover the pan with a lid and turn off the heat. Also, ensure you have easy access to a fire extinguisher if permitted by your building.
Don’t Overload Outlets
Using too many electronics in one outlet or power strip can easily start an electrical fire. Avoid daisy-chaining extension cords. If your breakers trip often, that’s a sign the electrical system is overloaded or faulty. Let your landlord know if you notice flickering lights or burning smells near outlets; these are not issues to ignore.
Keep Common Areas Clear
If you live in a building with shared hallways or stairwells, avoid leaving items like shoes, bikes, or storage bins in these spaces. They can block escape routes and create hazards during an evacuation. Keep your personal belongings in your unit and encourage others to do the same.
Staying fire-safe in a rental doesn’t have to be complicated. A little awareness and preparation go a long way in preventing emergencies. Check your alarms, know your exits, and keep safety top of mind; it’s one of the best ways to protect your home and the people in it.
References
Fire safety tips every renter should know. Fire Safety Tips Every Renter Should Know. (2024, October 30). https://www.obfd3.com/fire-safety-tips-renter-should-know
Ontario. (n.d.). Fire safety at home. ontario.ca. https://www.ontario.ca/page/fire-safety-home
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