Common Household Hazards

Did you know? Fireplaces that aren’t properly maintained can become a serious fire hazard. Over time, creosote—a highly flammable residue—can build up inside your chimney. If not removed, this buildup can ignite and cause a chimney fire, which may spread into your attic or wall spaces and lead to a structure fire.

To reduce your risk of a chimney fire:

• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned at least once a year by a certified professional
• Only burn dry, seasoned wood to reduce creosote buildup
• Install a chimney cap to prevent debris and animals from getting in
• Ensure working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are installed in your home

Taking these steps can significantly reduce your risk of a chimney-related fire.

Rags soaked with oil-based products can catch fire on their own—without a flame or spark. This is due to a chemical reaction called spontaneous combustion that occurs as certain oils dry and generate heat.

These types of fires can start in as little as a few hours and often go unnoticed until it's too late.

Common oil-based products that can cause spontaneous combustion are:

• Linseed oil and other drying oils
• Wood stains and finishes
• Oil-based primers, paints, thinners, and sealers
• Motor oils, lubricants, and solvents

Dry. Dunk. Dispose.

Never store oily rags in a pile, garbage can, or indoors. Taking a few precautions can prevent a serious fire. Follow these 3 steps to reduce the risk of an oil-rag sponteneous combustion.

• Dry: After use, lay oily rags flat outdoors in a well-ventilated area—away from buildings—to dry completely. Space them apart to allow airflow.
• Dunk: Once dry, place rags in a metal container filled with water and a small amount of detergent. Secure the container with a tight-fitting lid.
• Dispose: Take oily rags to a proper hazardous waste facility.

Learn more about disposal information and drop-off locations in Muskoka.

Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires. Always stay in the kitchen when using the stove or oven, and avoid distractions like phone calls or multitasking.

If a fire starts while cooking:

• Never use water to extinguish a cooking fire—it can cause the fire to spread rapidly.
• If safe to do so, cover the flames with a pot lid to smother the fire. Then turn off the burner.
• Do not try to move the pot or pan.
• If the fire is too large or out of control, leave the area immediately and call 911.

Being alert while cooking is one of the simplest ways to prevent a kitchen fire.

Electrical fires can start quickly and spread fast from electrical appliances around the home.—prevent them by using appliances safely and responsibly.

Taking a few simple precautions can help protect your home and family from electrical fires:

• Only use space heaters, extension cords, and chargers from reputable manufacturers
• If an appliance is damaged, malfunctioning, or recalled, stop using it immediately
• Never leave space heaters unattended or operating for long periods
• Avoid overloading outlets or extension cords
• Check cords for fraying, cracking, or exposed wiring, and replace if damaged

Lithium-ion batteries power many common devices—from smartphones, laptops, and toys to e-bikes, e-scooters, smoke alarms, and even vehicles. While generally safe, improper use, physical damage, or using the wrong charger can lead to overheating, fires, or explosions.

Why these batteries can be dangerous

Lithium-ion batteries store a large amount of energy in a compact space. Using these batteries in devices they weren’t designed for can pose a serious risk. Even properly used batteries can malfunction or be defective, causing them to overheat, catch fire, or explode.

Safety tips

Only purchase devices and batteries listed by a recognized testing laboratory. Follow all manufacturer instructions. Use only the battery and charger designed for the device. Insert batteries correctly and never force them.

Never charge devices:

• Under a pillow
• On a bed or couch
• Near flammable materials

Unplug devices once fully charged.

Keep batteries at room temperature; avoid charging below 0°C (32°F) or above 40°C (105°F). Store batteries in a cool, dry place, away from anything that can catch fire.

Warning signs of battery failure

Stop using the device immediately if you notice any of the following:

• Strong or unusual odour
• Discolouration or bulging
• Excessive heat
• Leaking fluids
• Strange noises (popping or hissing)

If safe to do so, move the device away from flammable materials and call 911.

Safe disposal

Never put lithium-ion batteries in the garbage or recycling bin. Dispose of them properly at a certified collection site. In Muskoka, take batteries and e-waste to a District of Muskoka Transfer Station or participating local business.

Charge your e-bike or scooter battery in a flat, dry, well-ventilated area, away from:

• Children and pets
• Direct sunlight and liquids
• Tripping hazards or clutter
• Flammable materials

Avoid charging in stairwells, hallways, or bedrooms. Ensure the charging space has a working smoke alarm.

Clothes dryers are a common convenience, but when not properly maintained, they can pose a serious fire risk. Lint buildup, improper venting, and overloading are some of the leading causes of dryer fires in Canadian homes.

Dryer fire prevention tips

• Clean the lint filter before or after every load
• Check behind and underneath the dryer for accumulated lint, dust, or clothing
• Inspect and clean the dryer vent and ductwork at least once a year or more often if drying takes longer than usual
• Ensure the exterior vent flap opens freely and is not blocked by snow, debris, or animal nests
• Use only rigid or flexible metal venting—not plastic or foil accordion-style ducts, which can trap lint and are more likely to catch fire
• Do not overload the dryer, and avoid drying items with oils, solvents, or gasoline on them
• Turn the dryer off before leaving the house or going to bed

Signs of a problem

• Clothes take longer than normal to dry
• A burning smell during or after a cycle
• Excessive heat in the laundry area
• Lint around the door seal or inside the dryer drum

Routine cleaning and proper installation can drastically reduce the risk of a dryer fire. A few extra minutes of maintenance could prevent a major emergency.