We understand that there’s no place like home, and we’re committed to helping you protect it. Part of safeguarding your property involves considering the potential for fire, not just in your home but also in your yard and other parts of your property1.
Steps to Prevent Fires on Your Property
Fires can originate in your yard and rapidly spread to your home, neighbouring properties, or even nearby fields, resulting in significant damage. Thankfully, there are several straightforward steps you can take to prevent fires on your property and to minimize damage if a fire does occur1.
- Maintain a Clean Yard: Keep your yard clear of brush, weeds, dead trees, and shrubs, as well as other potential fuel sources. Prune lower tree limbs to prevent them from acting as fire ladders, rake dead leaves from beneath your deck, and keep your gutters free from leaves and twigs.
- Store Flammable Materials Safely: Ensure propane tanks and firewood stacks are stored at least 30 feet away from your house and other heat sources, including matches and lighters.
- Practise Safe Barbecue Habits: Clean your barbecue before each use and monitor it when it’s lit. Keep children, pets, and combustibles at a safe distance, and position the barbecue away from wooden fences, vinyl siding, or anything else that can catch fire. In the event of a grease fire, smother it with baking soda instead of water, which could cause it to spread.
- Inspect Oil Tanks Regularly: If your home has an oil tank, arrange for an annual inspection to ensure it’s airtight and prevent fuel overflow or leaks.
- Water Potted Plants Regularly: Potting soil contains peat moss, which is highly flammable when dry. Water your potted plants frequently to keep the soil moist, especially in hot weather.
- Burn Responsibly: If your region permits open-air burning, obtain a permit if necessary, and notify local fire authorities before you burn. Avoid burning in windy weather and always supervise the fire, keeping buckets of water, sand, and a shovel close by.
- Exercise Caution with Off-Road Vehicles: The heat from the exhaust systems of off-road vehicles and dirt bikes can start fires in dry, tall grass, so exercise caution when using these vehicles.
- Dispose of Cigarette Butts Properly: Improperly disposed cigarette butts can blow into your yard and start fires. The safest place to dispose of cigarette butts is in a metal can filled with water1.
Protect Your Property from Wildfire Damage
Wildfires can be particularly dangerous and often occur in various regions. If you live in an area prone to wildfires, heed the advice from your local government or fire department. Stay prepared by knowing what to do before, during, and after a wildfire to keep your home and family safe.
Despite all precautions, fires can still occur. Contact us, your trusted local insurance brokerage, to ensure you have the appropriate coverage to protect your home and belongings from unexpected incidents1.
Share Fire Safety Tips
Help us spread the word about fire safety. Share this post with your friends and neighbours to help them prevent fires on their properties as well1.