Posted November 28, 2024
Fire prevention and safety is a shared responsibility in rental and strata properties, where multiple residents and shared spaces can increase the risk of fire. Proactive measures and education are key to protecting lives and property. Here’s a guide to the top fire risks in rental and strata properties, along with prevention strategies and general fire safety tips.
Top Fire Risks and How to Prevent Them
1. Cooking Fires
Cooking-related accidents are the leading cause of residential fires, often sparked by grease, unattended stovetops, or flammable items left too close to heat sources.
How to Prevent Cooking Fires:
Stress the importance of staying in the kitchen while cooking and monitor stovetops closely.
Create awareness around keeping flammable items like paper towels and oven mitts away from burners.
Install and maintain fire-resistant range hoods.
Equip each unit with a fire extinguisher and provide training on its use.
2. Electrical Fires
Electrical malfunctions, such as overloaded circuits or faulty wiring, can cause devastating fires, especially in older properties.
How to Prevent Electrical Fires:
Schedule regular inspections to identify and address outdated wiring or overloaded circuits.
Use CSA-approved power strips and surge protectors.
Avoid using damaged or unapproved extension cords.
Educate residents on safe electrical practices, including avoiding overloading outlets.
3. Smoking Indoors
Cigarettes and other smoking materials that aren’t properly extinguished are a common fire hazard in rental and strata properties.
How to Prevent Smoking-Related Fires:
Implement strict no-smoking policies indoors.
Provide designated outdoor smoking areas with fire-safe disposal bins.
Use signage to reinforce the importance of safe smoking practices.
4. Heating Equipment
Space heaters, fireplaces, and malfunctioning furnaces can be a significant fire risk if improperly used or maintained.
How to Prevent Heating Equipment Fires:
Encourage the use of CSA-approved heaters with automatic shut-off features.
Schedule annual maintenance for HVAC systems, furnaces, and fireplaces.
Keep flammable items at least three feet away from heating equipment.
5. Dryer and Laundry Fires
Lint buildup in dryers and vents is one of the most common fire risks in rental and strata properties.
How to Prevent Dryer Fires:
Require residents to clean lint traps after every use.
Schedule professional dryer vent cleaning at least once a year.
Post reminders in shared laundry areas to encourage lint removal
6. Candles and Open Flames
Unattended candles and incense can quickly lead to fires, particularly in enclosed spaces.
How to Prevent Fires from Open Flames:
Discourage the use of candles and incense in rental and strata units.
Promote battery-operated LED candles as safer alternatives.
Educate residents about the risks of unattended open flames.
7. Barbecue and Balcony Fires
Improper barbecue use and storing flammable materials on balconies can result in significant fire hazards.
How to Prevent Barbecue and Balcony Fires:
Enforce safe barbecue use, such as keeping grills away from walls and ensuring they cool before storage.
Prohibit storing propane tanks indoors or on balconies.
Conduct regular inspections of balconies to ensure they are clear of flammable items.
8. Arson or Unauthorized Access
Arson is a risk in unsecured shared spaces, such as storage rooms or parking lots.
How to Prevent Arson:
Install security cameras and lighting in common areas.
Use key-card or fob systems to limit access to the property.
Encourage residents to report suspicious activity immediately.
9. Clutter in Common Areas
Hallways, staircases, and storage spaces cluttered with flammable materials not only increase fire risks but can also obstruct escape routes.
How to Prevent Fires from Clutter:
Enforce policies to keep common areas clear of obstructions and combustible items.
Conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance.
Provide adequate storage solutions to prevent clutter.
10. Inadequate Fire Alarms and Suppression Systems
Without functional fire alarms and extinguishers, even small fires can spiral out of control.
How to Prevent Issues with Fire Systems:
Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed.
Ensure fire extinguishers are available in accessible locations.
Schedule regular inspections and maintenance for sprinkler systems and alarms.
General Fire Prevention Tips for Rental and Strata Properties
Preventing fires is about more than just addressing specific risks—it’s about fostering a culture of safety and preparedness.
Fire Safety Education: Conduct regular fire safety sessions for tenants and strata residents to promote awareness.
Escape Plans: Post clear evacuation plans in common areas and provide unit-specific guidelines.
Fire Drills: Organize annual fire drills to familiarize residents with escape routes and procedures.
Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance of fire alarms, extinguishers, and sprinkler systems by certified professionals.
Communication: Use newsletters, emails, or signage to remind residents about fire prevention tips and property-specific safety rules.
Why Fire Prevention Matters
Taking proactive steps to reduce fire risks is crucial for safeguarding lives, protecting property, and maintaining peace of mind. For property managers, strata councils, and residents, these prevention strategies can make all the difference in avoiding a devastating fire.
When Fire Strikes, Premium Restoration is Here to Help
Even with the best prevention measures, fires can still happen. If your rental or strata property suffers fire damage, Premium Restoration offers around-the-clock fire damage restoration services to get your property back to normal. From smoke and soot removal to structural repairs, our certified team has the resources and experience to handle any project. Serving BC's Lower Mainland and surrounding areas, you can contact us 24/7 at 604-943-7673.
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