Avoid property loss this summer: make fire-smart choices
Leduc Fire Services suggests that by ‘butting out’ smoking materials properly it could save your home from going up in smoke.
“We’re asking citizens to be fire smart this summer by using proper disposal practices with smoking materials,” says Leduc Fire Services Deputy Chief Gerry Kelly. “Residents should have safe receptacles for smoking materials to prevent fires before they happen.”
Safe receptacles for smoking materials include purpose-built glass or metal ashtrays, and must be clean, deep and non-combustible.
Leduc Fire would like to highlight the risks, especially with potted plants typically found on patios and balconies. Potting soil can contain up to 67 per cent peat, but looks just like dirt. Peat in the soil can smoulder for hours and ignite a larger fire. According to the Office of the Fire Commissioner, fires caused by smoking in 2014 resulted in over $21,000,000 in property loss in Alberta. Objects like planters, decks, railings and furniture are more flammable than they appear.
Leduc Fire suggests that if you suspect someone has put smoking materials in a planter, water the soil thoroughly. Once the soil and plant are damp, empty the planter onto a concrete surface, spread it out and inspect for burning material. Having a proper receptacle on hand for visitors and guests is also recommended to help reduce the risk and temptation of butting out in a flower pot.
For more information, visit Leduc.ca/fire and click on the ‘Fire Prevention Guide’ to learn more about fire safety. Citizens can also go to Fire House No. 1 (2-4119 50th St) and pick up a printed copy.
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Leduc is a growing, dynamic city in the heart of Canada’s economic engine and conveniently located at the crossroads of air, highway and rail transportation. The City of Leduc is a centre of innovation, entrepreneurship and quality of life. As a regional leader, the city, together with other municipalities in the area, plays a key role in protecting the integrity of the Edmonton International Airport (EIA) and leading economic development in the region, including Aerotropolis. For information on non-emergency city services and programs, visit www.leduc.ca or follow us on Twitter @cityofleduc
MEDIA CONTACT:
A.J. Dimas-Lehndorf, Corporate Communications
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