As we cope with the bitter cold temperatures, Sarnia Fire Rescue is reminding residents to be safe.
Fire Life Safety Educator Mike Otis said if you're using a space heater to stay warm, make sure to keep the appliance at least one metre or three feet away from anything that can burn.
"Put it on a flat hard surface, never put it right next to your furniture or put clothes on top of it, or put anything to dry near it, space heaters need space," said Otis. "Space heaters definitely cause fires when not used properly, so we definitely want to stress the importance of giving them space, and plugging them directly into a wall outlet."
We're also reminded in the event of a power outage during a cold snap or winter storm, to make sure when using generators they are used outdoors only, exhaust fumes do not enter the home.
If you have a wood burning stove or fireplace, Otis said it and chimneys should be inspected and cleaned annually.
Otis said most importantly, make sure you have working smoke and CO alarms.
"As of January 1, 2026 carbon monoxide alarms are now required on every storey of your home, in any home with a fuel burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage," he said. "And smoke alarms have always been required on every storey of your home and outside sleeping areas."
While unattended cooking is a leading cause of house fires, according to Ontario's Office of the Fire Marshall, the Canadian Red Cross said house fires are mostly likely to happen between December and March, with December and January being peak months.
