The London Fire Department and The University of Western Ontario want you to be "Fire Safe". The following information has been compiled to help you check for some common fire hazards and other key issues when searching for a place to live off campus. Keep this in mind when looking at possible accommodations.
FIRE EXITS
Fire regulations will vary depending on the type of building that you reside in. A home with an apartment, regardless of number, is required to have properly separated fire exits. A separated exit generally means that a fire anywhere in the building will not affect your ability to leave. Separations usually include fire doors, dry walled ceilings and walls, as well as electric smoke alarms (not battery operated) in the shared stairways and corridors. Under the fire code, an apartment contains both a kitchen and washroom.
There should always be a minimum of two ways out of your bedroom. The window can be considered an exit, but ensure that it is operable and is of sufficient size and height to allow you to get out in an emergency. Those in a basement apartment that open into a window well must have adequate space to allow exiting.
OPERATING SMOKE ALARMS
Are they located outside each sleeping area? These alarms are your first line of defence should a fire break out while you're sleeping. The best level of protection is provided when there is at least one alarm on each level of the house. Alarms must be located on the ceiling, or no more that 12 inches down from the ceiling to provide proper warning. Note that it is the building owner's responsibility to maintain these alarms, including changing the batteries. Tenants must test the units monthly and report any problem to the owner. The penalty for removing a battery is a minimum $200 to a maximum $25,000 and/or a year imprisonment.
HOUSE NUMBERS
Ensure that your home is easily identifiable from the street by emergency personnel. House numbers should not be less than three inches in height.
CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS
Any home that contains fuel fire appliances (those powered by natural gas, propane, or wood stoves and fireplaces) should have carbon monoxide alarms present, outside the sleeping rooms. Ensure that a clearance of at least 1 metre (3 feet) is maintained around all fuel fired appliances.
Building Fire Safety Checklist;
SOME FIRE SAFETY TIPS
COOKINGFIRE-SAFE BEHAVIOUR CHECKLIST
To learn more about Fire and Life Safety visit: www.london.ca/residents/Fire-Department/.
Finally, remember that a few minutes spent ensuring that your home is fire safe and preparing for an emergency could save your life. If you have any questions about fire safety, or have a concern or question regarding your residence, contact the London Fire Department - Fire Prevention office at (519) 661-4565.
In an Emergency, call 911
(For Police, Fire and Ambulance in London and the surrounding area)