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

Spring Fire Safety: Stay Safe as the Weather Warms Up

Spring brings warmer temperatures, outdoor activities, and an increased risk of fires. Dry grass, changing weather conditions, and more outdoor cooking can all contribute to fire hazards. Follow these spring fire safety tips to keep your home, property, and community safe.

Campfires and Outdoor Burning

Outdoor fires can spread quickly, especially during dry or windy conditions.

Always check local burning regulations and fire bans before starting any outdoor fire
Never burn during high winds or dry conditions
Keep campfires small and contained within an approved fire pit
Always have water, a hose, or a fire extinguisher nearby
Ensure fires are fully extinguished with water and stirred ashes before leaving. Discarded ashes should be placed in a metal container and stored away from buildings.

BBQ Safety

Barbecues are a common cause of spring fires is used improperly.

Use BBQs outdoors only, never in garages, on balconies, or near doors and windows
Keep BBQs well away from buildings, siding, and overhanging branches
Clean grease buildup from grills and drip trays regularly
Never leave a lit BBQ unattended
Keep a fire extinguisher or garden hose nearby while cooking

Propane Safety

Many spring activities involve propane appliances such as BBQs, heaters and fire tables.

Inspect propane hoses and connections for cracks, leaks, or damage
Replace damaged or worn hoses immediately
Check for leaks using soapy water - never a flame
Turn off propane tanks when appliances are not in use
Store propane cylinders outdoors, upright, and away from heat sources

Yard Maintenance and Fire Risk

Spring cleanup can unintentionally increase fire hazards.

Dispose of yard waste properly — do not burn unless permitted
Keep dry leaves and debris away from building and decks
Use gas powered yard equipment safely and refuel only when engines are cool
Store fuels in approved containers, away from ignition sources

Core Services for Fire Prevention Division

The core services that must be provided are a simplified risk assessment, a smoke alarm program, distribution of fire safety education material to residents and inspections upon complaint or when requested to assist with code compliance.

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