Port Coquitlam Fire & Emergency Services is reminding residents of the fire risks associated with the warmer weather and has compiled the following tips to help local residents be fire smart this summer.

Safety at the grill

• Never store combustible materials next to the barbecue.
• Before covering or storing your barbecue, make sure it has been shut off, is completely cool and/or has no hot coals.
• Never leave the barbecue unattended when in use.
• Keep gas hoses away from hot surfaces and hot grease.
• Keep children and pets away from the gas valve and the grill.
• Keep loose clothing away from the hot barbecue.
• Don’t put water on a grease fire – it will only cause flames to flare. Use an approved fire extinguisher or baking soda.
• Don’t operate your barbecue near wooden fences or walls, beneath a combustible roof, under a tree, near vinyl siding or in an enclosed space (such as a garage).
• When finished, first turn off the gas valve to allow gas in the hoses to burn off before turning off the burner controls.
• Clean the burners and grill regularly to minimize the risk of grease fires.

Reducing risk of fire damage to your property

• Prune shrubs and trees, and remove deadfall or woodpiles near your home.
• Keep your grass mowed.
• Ensure your roof, gutters and eaves are free of combustible debris; prune overhanging branches.
• Make sure chimneys meet current building codes and have spark arrestors.
• Contact BC Hydro if vegetation is near or touching power lines.

Outdoor burning

• Residents and park users are reminded that outdoor burning, fireworks and campfires are not permitted and to watch for bans on smoking or using barbecues during high fire risk levels.
• Burning on agricultural properties is permitted under certain conditions and with a permit –  visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/fire for more information.

Plan to be prepared for an emergency

• Ensure your address is clearly visible for quick identification by emergency responders.
• Practice your family escape plan with every member in your household, and your out-of-area contact. Make sure children know how and when to dial 9-1-1.
• Plan and know alternate routes of egress from your home and neighbourhood.
• Take free emergency preparedness courses available through the City of Port Coquitlam (info: www.portcoquitlam.ca/ep).

Meet the fire crews this summer
Invite the Port Coquitlam fire crews to your neighbourhood gathering this summer through the annual Hot Summer Nights program. The program gives residents a chance to meet firefighters, check out their equipment and learn more about personal and fire safety. To book a visit, contact fire@portcoquitlam.ca or 604.927.5466.
For more fire safety and prevention measures visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/fire.

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Contact

Randy Minaker
Deputy Fire Chief
Port Coquitlam Fire & Emergency Services
T: 604.927.5466
E: minakerr@portcoquitlam.ca