Heatwaves: Home fire prevention

Quebec summers are increasingly prone to heatwaves. When one sets in, we naturally seek shelter from the sun and drink plenty of water. But we sometimes forget about the higher risk of fire. Extreme temperatures combined with drought and increased use of equipment create the perfect conditions for fire.

Here are some tips on how to protect your home and keep your summer fun from going up in smoke.

Did you know?

• Canada is warming at twice the rate of the global average.
• In the summer of 2024, several regions of Quebec experienced temperature differences exceeding 10°C compared with seasonal averages.
• Climate change has doubled the probability of extreme weather conditions conducive to forest fires (intense heat, low humidity and drought) in Eastern Canada. As a result, the fire season in Quebec was almost 50% more intense than normal.

Beware of circuit overload

When fans and air conditioners are running at full capacity, the risk of overheating increases. An overloaded circuit or damaged extension cord can be enough to start a fire.

• Avoid plugging several power-hungry appliances into the same socket.
• Replace damaged or poor-quality extension cords.
• Clean air conditioner filters regularly.
• Make sure there is enough clearance around appliances.

Tip: Touch your plugs and extension cords to make sure they’re not hot. If they are, unplug them immediately!

Firing up the BBQ

Summer barbecuing is fantastic provided you do so with care. A gust of wind, an out-of-control flame, a momentary distraction, and things can quickly get out of hand. In extremely hot weather, you need to be extra careful.

• Set it up away from the house and store flammable materials away from it.
• Never leave it unattended.
• Check the gas pipes.
• Clean it regularly.

Charcoal? Wait until the embers cool down before disposing of them.

Drought conditions

During heatwaves, vegetation dries out quickly and becomes highly flammable. So be careful with what you do with your cigarette butts and keep the grounds around the house clear.

Cigarettes

Cigarettes are still one of the main causes of house fires. In extreme heat, a single butt can be enough to set a hedge or garden furniture on fire.

• Don't smoke near plants or on balconies.
• Never put out a cigarette in a flowerpot because the soil can catch fire.
• Never throw cigarette butts in the garden, even if they appear to be out.

To limit the risks, you can:

• designate a smoking area away from the house and landscaping.
• install an outdoor ashtray.

Yard maintenance

Poorly maintained grounds or materials stored too close to the house can fuel a fire.

• Regularly water very dry areas near buildings.

• Store propane tanks, firewood and combustibles away from the house.

Campfires

There's nothing like a campfire in the evening. But in dry periods, flames can get out of control and wreak havoc.

Be sure to respect municipal regulations concerning the use of outdoor fireplaces.

To enjoy a campfire in total safety:

• Use a fireplace equipped with a poker and screen.
• Set up a fire pit in an open area, away from trees, fences and buildings.
• Check the weather and avoid campfires on windy days.
• Keep a bucket of water, a hose or a fire extinguisher close by.
• Never leave a fire unattended.

Ashes: vigilance is key

Campfire ashes can remain hot for up to 1 week. They should be completely cooled before being disposed of in a metal container with a lid. Be sure to add water to extinguish the remaining smouldering embers.

Prepare your home for a heatwave

The best protection against fire is prevention. Be sure to thoroughly inspect your property in the spring.

Fire safety

• Test your smoke detectors and replace the batteries.
• Check the expiration date of your fire extinguishers and their accessibility.

Electrical installations

• Make sure your electrical panel is in good condition and easily accessible.
• Inspect your extension cords, power bars and ventilation devices.
• When in doubt, have your installation checked by an expert.

Emergency plan

• Make sure you have a clear evacuation plan with several exits and a designated meet-up spot.
• Organize an test evacuation with the whole family.

Heatwaves are now part of Quebec summers. The best way to make the most of the warm weather is to follow these tips and team up with your broker to get home insurance policy that's right for you.