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With the changing of seasons, some fire safety tips

Fire safety is crucial all-year-round, but particularly during the fall and winter months when home heating and appliance use is at its peak
Fire
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NEWS RELEASE
RELIANCE HOME COMFORT
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Fire safety is a crucial consideration all-year-round, but particularly during the fall and winter months when home heating and appliance use is at its peak.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, a majority of fire deaths in North America happen at home. Some house fires can be traced to common household devices from furnaces to gas stoves, hot water heaters to household lamps. Homeowners must be vigilant about understanding the risks.

This Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 6-12), Reliance Home Comfort is pleased to offer Canadians the following safety tips to protect themselves and their loved ones from danger:

1. Inspection is key: Now is the perfect time to schedule a furnace check-up to ensure your unit is running safely and smoothly.  A qualified technician can ensure that burners and filters are clean and dust-free and confirm that the furnace system is operating safely.

2. Clear the area: The immediate area surrounding your furnace and hot water heater should be cleared of any debris, particularly combustible materials like gasoline, painting materials or paint cans.

3. Sound the alarm: Now is a great time of year to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working properly. Schedule an inspection immediately if you suspect a problem.

4. Appliance check: Household dryers are a common but often overlooked risk factor when it comes to residential fires. A professional cleaning performed periodically can help prevent dryer-related hazards by inspecting the dryer vent, re-taping any loos seams and replacing or repairing vent lines. 

When it comes to fire prevention, a few small steps can make a big difference. Please consider the above safety steps this Fire Prevention Week.

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