Do you know how old your smoke alarm is?
If it’s over 10 years old, it’s time to replace it. Check the date on the back today.
Small actions. Big protection.
🔥 Heading out for a campfire? Make fire safety part of the plan.
Before you light up, check local fire restrictions, choose a safe location and keep water and a shovel close by.
While it’s burning, keep your fire small, burn only clean, dry wood and never leave it unattended.
Before you leave—or go to sleep—put it out completely. Drown it with water, stir the ashes and make sure everything is cool to the touch.
A few minutes of preparation can help protect lives, property and Nova Scotia’s forests. 🌲
Enjoy the outdoors. Protect our forests.
Learn more: https://t.co/t4VEUkCaTx
Cooking with oil? Stay alert and don't leave the kitchen while cooking.
If a grease fire starts, don't use water to put it out - it can cause an explosion. Turn off the heat source, cover the pot with a lid and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
Minister Kim Masland visited the Office of the Fire Marshal this week to learn more about the incredible work this team does every day to help keep Nova Scotians safe.
From fire prevention and public education to inspections, investigations, regulations and standards, the Office of the Fire Marshal provides critical expertise and support to municipalities and fire services across the province.
We're proud to have the Office of the Fire Marshal as part of the Department of Emergency Management.
Their work is challenging. Highly specialized. And incredibly important.
We’re stronger together — and together, we’re helping make Nova Scotia safer.
Thank you to the team for the expertise, professionalism and passion you bring to this work every day.
Charging something big like an e-bike, scooter or power tool with a lithium-ion battery?
Do it outside. Use a flat, dry area away from direct sunlight, anything wet, kids, or tripping hazards. And make sure your bike or device is secure - so it doesn't fall while charging.
One Spark Is All It Takes
Wildfires are already affecting communities across Nova Scotia. Right now, every decision matters.
Whether you're camping, working outdoors, or spending time in your backyard, avoid any activity that could create a spark. Follow all fire restrictions and use extra caution.
Preventing the next wildfire starts with all of us. By doing your part, you're helping protect our communities, our forests, and the firefighters working tirelessly to keep people safe.
Smoke alarms save lives.
A working smoke alarm can cut the risk of dying in a house fire by HALF.
Make sure you:
- Test alarms monthly
- Change batteries yearly
- Replace alarms every 10 years
Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires.
Stay safe in the kitchen:
• Never leave cooking unattended
• Keep flammable items away from stovetops
• Keep a lid nearby to smother flames
If a grease fire starts—don’t use water. Cover it and turn off the heat.
When there is a fire, smoke spreads quickly. Smoke alarms give you an early warning to get out quickly; you may only have a few minutes to get out safely. That's why it’s so important to have smoke alarms that work.
Safety tips: https://t.co/zKJ14evVnJ
It’s Fire Prevention Week. In NS, about 24 per cent of fatalities happen in homes without smoke alarms or with alarms that don’t work.
To protect yourself and others, install smoke alarms, test them at least once a month, and replace the alarm (or their batteries) when needed.
NEW: Dog starts a house fire in Tulsa, Oklahoma after chewing through a portable lithium-ion battery.
The Tulsa Fire Department released the following video to warn people about the "dangers of lithium-ion batteries."
Two dogs and a cat were filmed hanging out before one of the dogs started the fire with the battery pack.
The animals were filmed in the living room on an indoor monitoring camera, observing the fire before it got out of hand.
"Lithium-ion batteries are known for storing a significant amount of energy in a compact space," the fire department said.
"However, when this energy is released uncontrollably, it can generate heat, produce flammable and toxic gases, and even lead to explosions."
The pets were able to escape the home through a dog door.
A new department will pave the way for the establishment of a new volunteer corps called the Nova Scotia Guard to help Nova Scotians when a crisis or disaster occurs.
For more information, read the news release at: https://t.co/qrcWbw8Jxn
The Office of the Fire Marshal wants to remind residents and business owners to take care when clearing snow and ice from buildings.
Falling ice and snow can damage propane storage tanks, piping, lines and other equipment. Avoid tossing snow where equipment is located.
Deputy Fire Marshal O’Brien reminds Nova Scotians to ensure chimney and appliance vents are clear from snow as soon as possible. This will help keep your home safe from carbon monoxide (CO) build up. CO has no smell and is invisible.
People are also reminded that even during these challenging times, all exit doors must be free of ice and snow at all times. This especially important for any facilities with residents who may have unique needs.
The Office of the Fire Marshal is urging residents and business owners to check propane storage tanks, piping, lines and any other equipment that may be exposed to falling or heavy snow and ice.