As summer hits, Canadians are heading to the lake, to the deck and to the garden to soak up heat.
CSA Group, a standards development organization and global provider of testing and certification, shares its top tips for keeping safe while outside enjoying summer activities:
1. Fresh air. Never light a stove or lantern indoors, in a tent or in a vehicle, and never use a barbecue in a garage.
To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, fuel-burning equipment should only be used in well-ventilated areas.
Ensure that certified carbon monoxide and smoke alarms are tested and properly installed outside all sleeping areas of your cabin, cottage or boat.
2. Stay cool. Keep loose, flammable clothing away from open flames and carefully monitor children and pets around stoves and lanterns. Before packing up equipment, make sure it is completely turned off and cool to the touch.
3. Grill it. Before firing up the grill for the first time this season, carefully inspect burners and burner tubes for blockages due to dirt, grease, insects, nests or rust build-up.
Clean or replace any blocked parts or have a certified technician make repairs.
And remember: propane tanks must be inspected and re-qualified every 10 years in Canada and every 12 years in the U.S.
A date stamp on the cylinder indicates when it was last qualified. If yours has passed its best before date, recycle it properly.
4. Inspect your gadgets. When opening your cabin, cottage or rustic retreat for the season, carefully inspect all appliances and wiring for damage from rodents, insects or moisture.
5. Get equipped. Ensure boats, cabins and cottages are equipped with proper safety equipment in the event of an emergency, including first aid kits and fire extinguishers.
6. Stay alert. Always wear a personal flotation device and never consume alcohol or intoxicants before or while operating a watercraft – or any vehicle.
For more tips and to learn about CSA visit www.csagroup.org.