Keep your home office space safe

COVID-19: UrbanToronto Updates from the Industry for April 8, 2021

Urbantoronto.ca
April 9, 2021

The global COVID-19 pandemic is having far-reaching effects in Toronto, including major impacts on what have been booming real estate and building industries. As a means to keep the public in the loop about the shutdowns, we'll be sharing information and status updates from around the industry on a regular basis.

In today's report:

**

Many of you may be working virtually from home as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. But working at home can be distracting -- if you have pets and children sharing your workspace, you may overlook potential fire hazards. To help keep your home office safe, Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service has some fire prevention tips to keep in mind.

The first tip is around electronic devices -- from computers and printers to charging devices and lamps, your office likely has many devices that need to be plugged in at the same time. Remember to use a certified power bar and not put too many plugs into one outlet, which can overwhelm the outlet. Another important reminder: do not use extension cords as permanent wiring, and do not run cords under rugs or floors as this can overheat the wires.

During your lunch or snack breaks, remember these cooking safety tips:

• Stay in the kitchen when cooking. Turn off the stove if you must step away and remove all items from the stovetop when you are finished cooking.
• Avoid distractions, such as non-urgent emails and focus on the task in front of you.
• Avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing while cooking as it can catch on fire.
• Keep flammable items -- oven mitts, cooking utensils, dish cloths, paper towels and potholders -- a safe distance from the stove.
• Keep young kids away from the stove and turn pot handles away from the stove's edge to avoid them being accidentally knocked off.
• Ensure a proper-fitting pot lid is nearby to smother flames in the event of a fire.
• Keep a working fire extinguisher in the kitchen.
• Have a working smoke alarm and a home escape plan in case an incident occurs.
• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month by pressing the test button to ensure the alarm is working.

For more information and at-home fire safety tips, visit vaughan.ca/fire.