The number of people who have died in house fires in Ontario nearly doubled in 2020.
There were 114 fire deaths, up from 66 in 2019. And there have already been ten fire fatalities so far in 2021.
Huron County's Fire Coordinator Shawn Edwards is urging everyone to be vigilant against fires as people follow stay-at-home orders to stop the spread of COVID-19.
"A lot of it is being related to the fact that people are spending a lot more time at home, cooking, setting up home offices, and other activities," he explained.
"The most important thing is, is that your family and your home are protected with working smoke alarms on every level of your home, and outside of the sleeping areas. And that you test them once a month to make sure they work" he stressed.
Homeowners with fuel fired appliances and or an attached garage should have working Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms outside sleeping areas.
Edwards says when setting up home offices or study areas, do not overload electrical circuits or power bars, and avoid the use of extension cords. He says you should always charge cell phones, electronics on a hard surface, and not on a bed or couch. Always use the manufacturers charging cord. Avoid using aftermarket or universal charging cords.
Smoking is also a leading cause of home fires. If you smoke, smoke outdoors and dispose of butts in deep, sturdy ashtrays, filled with sand or water and empty them regularly.
Keep matches and lighters locked away and out of sight from children and talk to your kids about fire safety. He adds with the kids at home, it's an ideal time for families to practice their fire escape plan. he says there should ideally be two ways out of every room, and a safe meeting place outside.