Safety main message for cottage goers this long weekend
Posted May 21, 2016 05:26:41 AM.
Last Updated May 21, 2016 06:28:42 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
With this May long weekend being the traditional cottage opening weekend, the Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office is sending out a safety message.
Public Safety Education Manager Ryan Betts tells 570 News they want people to have a safe summer.
“They call their cottage their piece of heaven; we want them to have peace of mind as well.”
This means cleaning up around the cottage, packing away dead leaves, branches and clearing away any debris from the fire pit.
“People need to check with their local municipality or fire department for any restrictions there might be on burning too.”
He adds it’s important to know and practice an escape plan in case of an emergency.
“We’re getting away to some rather remote locations and you may not have any emergency response in some of those areas, and if there is an emergency response, it’s not unrealistic to expect significantly longer response times.”
And before you head out, Betts advises to pack some extra batteries for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Remember, the same rules apply to the cottage as they do your home – you have to have a carbon monoxide alarm outside all sleeping areas plus smoke detectors on each floor.
He also recommends having fire extinguishers and escape ladders on the property.
