Have a Fire Safe Holiday Season!

Regina Fire & Protective Services reminds residents of some holiday fire safety tips:

• Ice and Water - Inconsistent air temperatures make ice surfaces unpredictable. Stay off all bodies of water, storm channels and detention ponds. If an emergency on the ice occurs involving pets or people, call 9-1-1. Regina Fire & Protective Services does not monitor or test ice thickness on bodies of water within the city. For safe skating options, visit Regina.ca.

• Snow Forts - Keep winter fort building safe for children by ensuring they are built without a roof. This protects against the risk of a collapse trapping a child underneath. If there's a roof on the fort, at least one adult should supervise at all times.

• Cooking - Most fires in homes start in the kitchen. Keep your family safe by staying in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop. Remember, if what you are cooking catches on fire, calmly slide a lid over the pot or pan to smother the fire.

• String Lights and Decorations - Holiday lights can add a warm glow to the season when used safely. Keep decorations and fabrics like curtains away from string lights and candles. Turn the holiday lights off before going to bed.

• Candles - Use candles safely by placing them on a fire safe, stable surface. Stay in the room when a candle is lit and extinguish it completely before leaving the room.

• Christmas Trees - Live trees can be a wonderful addition to the holidays, but they can be a fire hazard if not cared for properly. Water live trees daily and keep them away from all heat sources. After the holidays, Treecycle your tree by dropping it off at the Yard Waste Depot, Mondays to Saturdays, December 26 to January 31 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

• Fireplaces and wood stoves - Enjoy your fireplace safely by ensuring it is professionally inspected and cleaned. Ensure all decorations such as stockings and garlands are kept a safe distance away from the fire.

Visit Regina.ca/fire to learn more.