Tent and Trailer Camping - Fire Safety

When camping outdoors fire safety of you, and neighbouring campsites, should be an important consideration. Here are a few things to keep in mind to make your campsite safe:

General Tent Safety

• If a fire occurs alert other people nearby and call 911. Only attempt to extinguish the fire if it is safe to do so.
• Never operate fuel-based appliances in or near tents. This includes generators, heaters, and cooking devices. Always refer to manufacturers operating instructions
• Fuel (propane or gasoline) should be stored a safe distance away from a tents and sources of ignition.
• Falling asleep while smoking is a serious risk. Do not smoke in tents.
• Dispose of cigarette butts properly using a non-combustible container containing sand or water.
• Avoid clutter in and around tents. Have a clear path of travel to get out in an emergency.

RV (Camper trailer, Motorhome)

• If the RV is not being used during the winter smoke alarm batteries, or the entire alarm if a sealed unit, should be removed during freezing temperatures to prevent early battery failure. Be sure to reinstall when the season starts up again.
• Photoelectric smoke alarms better for small, enclosed spaces - less false alarms
• RV’s have CO alarms, they have an expiration date, and need to be tested regularly to ensure operation.
• Ensure propane appliances are regularly maintained and cleaned.
• Check propane lines for leaks prior to use; and turn off all propane while not in use.
• Always have an extinguisher mounted in an easily accessible location next to the exit. Check it monthly and have it tested annually.

Electrical

• Never string multiple extension cords together.
• Inspect cords before use to make sure they are in good condition and not cracked or frayed.
• Do not place electrical cords under items, or in high traffic areas.
• In tents, ensure electrical appliances are placed in a safe location and not subjected to water or snow.
• Ensure tents do not accumulate snow and or water on roof that would cause them to collapse on electrical appliances.
• Use extension cords rated for outdoor use only. Using an indoor cord or power bar, even for a short time, could cause shock, electrocution, or fire.
• If using an approved electric heater ensure it is on a level non-combustible surface with proper clearances from combustibles, no less than 3 feet unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer.
• Never leave a tent heater unattended or sleep with the heater is running.

Open Camp Fires

A Camp fire under the HRM Burning Bylaw is defined as “any open fire that burns no larger than 0.5m in diameter and is intended for recreation and not for survival”.  Below are some safety tips, for more detail about burning restrictions in HRM click here.

• Before lighting a fire check to see if any burning bans or restrictions are in effect in your area.
• A fire must always be monitored, as any change in the environment could lead to an out-of-control situation — even if you are only gone for five minutes!
• Keep outdoor fires at least 15 feet from buildings, tents, vehicles, or combustible materials.
• Keep your fire small and put it in a place where it cannot spread (ie: away from trees, buildings or other tents).
• Always have a bucket of water near and make sure that you put the fire out completely before leaving or going to sleep.
• Dump water on the fire and stir the ashes in the water. BBQ briquettes should be extinguished in the same manner as any other fire.
• Dispose of ashes in a non-combustible container if they cannot be extinguished properly.

Carbon Monoxide

• Carbon Monoxide has no odor, taste or colour. Carbon Monoxide is produced when fuel (propane, gas, wood) is burned.

• Any fuel burning appliance can produce CO. Always use portable appliances outside in a well-ventilated area.