Fire Prevention and Public Education

Smoke alarm and evacuation plan

Fire and life safety education is an important element of Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services to increase awareness of the need for smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms and home escape planning, subsequently reducing the risk and impact of fires in our municipality.

The Fire Prevention Division is responsible for inspections, investigations, plan reviews, and public education.

The minimum acceptable level of service is identified in a Public Fire Safety Guideline issued by the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management.

Learn about potential fire hazards in your home

Fall Fire Safety: Prepare Your Home for the Heating Season

As temperatures drop and leaves begin to fall, fire risks change around your home and property. Fall is the ideal time to prepare heating appliances, complete yard cleanup safely, and ensure your home is ready for the months ahead.

Cleanup and Outdoor Fire Safety

Dry leaves and yard debris can ignite easily and help fires spread quickly.

Remove leaves, grass clippings, and debris from around buildings, decks, and sheds
Keep dry leaves off roofs, eavestroughs, and window wells
Dispose of yard waste properly - do not burn unless permitted by local bylaws
Never burn on windy or dry days
Keep water or a horse nearby and never leave fires unattended

Wood Stove and Fireplace Safety

Improper use or maintenance of wood burning appliances is a leading cause of home fires.

Have chimneys and vents inspected and cleaned annually
Remove creosote buildup to reduce chimney fire risk
Use only seasoned, dry wood - never burn garbage, cardboard, or treated wood
Keep combustible materials at least 1 metre (3 feet) away
Ensure ash is completely cool before disposal in a metal container

Furnace and Heating System Maintenance

Proper maintenance improves safety, efficiency, and indoor air quality.

Have furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps serviced by a qualified technician
Replace or clean furnace filters regularly
Keep the area around heating equipment clear and free of storage
Ensure all exhaust and intake vents outside are unobstructed
Never use cooking appliances to heat your home

Space Heater Safety

If using space heaters during fall months.

Keep heaters at least 1 metre (3 feet) from anything that can burn
Place heaters on flat, stable surfaces
Never eave space heaters unattended or operating overnight
Plug heaters directly into wall outlets - do not use extension cords
Turn heaters off when leaving the room

Core Services for Fire Prevention Division

The Fire Prevention Division protects public safety through fire inspections, Ontario Fire Code enforcement, fire investigations, and public education. The Division identifies and addresses fire and life-safety hazards and supports compliance with applicable legislation. Through proactive inspections, education, and enforcement, the Division works to reduce fire risk, prevent fires, and protect life and property.

Smoke alarms

Find out about smoke alarm installation, maintenance, and testing in your home.

Learn about smoke alarm requirements

Alarmed for life

Learn about this home fire safety awareness program that helps to keep our community safe.

Discover the alarmed for life program

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms are required in all homes. Learn about why you need CO alarms on all floors.

Find out more about carbon monoxide

Building inspections

Building fire inspections are based on mandated inspections, complaints, requests and routine inspections. Building permit plans are reviewed for fire protection equipment to confirm compliance with the Ontario Building Code and referenced standards.

Learn about building permits