This summer has been the busiest months in the last five years for building and structure fires in Calgary. The cause of most of these fires is careless disposal of smoking material in an outdoor patio planter.
The Calgary Fire Department reminds Calgarians that disposing of smoking material in flower planters, peat moss, your lawn or garden is a dangerous choice.
Fires that start outside a building are potentially much more dangerous for occupants, as indoor smoke alarms may not detect the fire until it is well underway.
To better protect your home, it is recommended that you:
- Never put out cigarettes or smoking material in flower planter, peat moss, your lawn or garden. Use a deep, wide, sturdy metal container filled part way with sand or water that should be emptied regularly.
- Ensure all cigarette butts and ash are put out by dousing them with water prior to putting in the garbage.
- Do not store propane tanks, firewood or yard waste next to your house.
- Prune all tree branches within two metres of the ground and plant new trees at least three metres apart.
- Assess potential fire hazards within 30 metres of your home, including natural debris, trees and other structures.
Remember to always call 9-1-1 to report a fire.
For more information on outdoor fire safety, visit calgary.ca/smokingdisposal.
