Fire Safety Inspections

Fire safety inspections can be requested by building owners or initiated in response to a complaint regarding fire safety concerns. In addition, the fire department conducts regular scheduled inspections as outlined in the Fire Prevention Policy. These inspections help building owners ensure their properties comply with the Ontario Fire Code.

What to Expect

During an inspection, a Fire Prevention Officer will review all areas of the building specified in the Ontario Fire Code. For example, in a restaurant, the inspection may include:

• Kitchen fire protection equipment
• Emergency and exit lighting
• Fire extinguishers
• Fire separations
• Other fire safety features relevant to the building

Building Owner Responsibilities

Building owners are responsible for maintaining fire safety systems, including fire alarms, emergency lighting, fire extinguishers, exit lighting, and door closures. These systems must be regularly checked, tested, and inspected in accordance with the Ontario Fire Code. Certain equipment, such as commercial cooking equipment, must be inspected every six months. Inspection records are reviewed by the Fire Prevention Officer during their visit.
 

Eliminate the Risk

Safe Smoking and Fire Practices

• Always dispose of smoking materials in a fireproof container after ensuring they are fully cooled.
• When building a fire pit: clear the surrounding area, use rocks to create a barrier for coals and flames, and place the fire on sand or rock to avoid burning tree roots. For more fire pit tips, visit the Ministry of Natural Resources.
• When extinguishing a campfire, make sure all coals and flames are completely cooled using water.

What to Do in a Forest Fire

• Stay calm and call 911 immediately. Know your location, including the road name and nearest civic 911 number, to help first responders reach you quickly.
• Depending on the size of the fire and weather conditions, you may need to evacuate the area immediately.
• If the fire is deep in the bush, you may need to guide fire crews to the safest access points.

More Information

For additional forest fire safety guidance, contact a Seguin Township Fire Prevention Officer or visit the Ministry of Natural Resources and Firesmart Canada.

The Basics

Teaching fire safety starts at a young age. Children should learn to:

• Get out and stay out when the Smoke and CO alarm sounds.
• Practice your Fire Escape Plan.
• Stay low in smoke.
• Never hide from fire fighters.
• Avoid playing with matches.
• Keep clear of candles.

Fire Safe Homes

To keep your home safe from fire, follow these steps:

• Install smoke alarms on every level and near sleeping areas.
• Have your heating equipment inspected annually.
• Keep combustible materials away from heat sources.
• Keep pot handles turned inward on stoves.
• Check/maintain smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms.
• Clean the lint trap after every dryer use.
• Develop and regularly practice a fire escape plan.
   

Smoke Alarm Checks

Each year, the fire department provides smoke alarm checklists that students can take home and complete with their parents. This helps ensure that children in our community are living in fire-safe homes. [View a sample checklist here.]

Fire Drills

Schools are required to conduct three fire drills in the fall and three in the spring. At Humphrey School, the fire department joins these drills to provide guidance and support. Every drill has been a great success, helping students learn safe evacuation practices.

Fire Safety Day

Each spring, primary classes from Humphrey School visit the fire hall for a day of fun, hands-on learning. Students practice dialing 911 and learn the important information they need in an emergency. Activities also include “Get Out, Stay Out” drills and staying low under simulated smoke. The day concludes with the exciting experience of spraying the fire hose!