For more info on the FireSmart program:

In home fires, early warning is critical.  So don't wait until it's too late.  Smoke alarms are one of the best and least expensive ways to provide early warning when a fire begins.  When properly installed and maintained, smoke alarms can help prevent injuries and minimize property damage.  They can mean the difference between life and death.

• How will you family escape safely from a fire?
• By law, every home must have at least one smoke detector.
• Fire extinguishers should only be used to extinguish or contain a small fire, and after the fire department has been notified.
• Fire extinguishers are only good for 5 years.

Develop and practice a fire escape plan with the family, so that everyone knows what to do and where to go when the alarm sounds.

PREVENT CHIMNEY FIRES BY HAVING YOUR CHIMNEY CLEANED ANNUALLY

Quick notes of interest:

• USE dry wood, about 2 years old.
• DO NOT burn green or wet wood.
• DO NOT dry wood beside a wood stove.
• If your stove needs replacing, check for grants at www.rdn.bc.ca.