October is Fire Prevention Month, and that means it’s the perfect time to brush up on everyday fire safety in your apartment. Whether you’re new to apartment living or have lived in an apartment or condo for years, staying fire-safe starts with knowing your surroundings, staying informed, and being ready in case of an emergency.
Here’s your fire safety guide for apartment renters in London, Ontario and how Summit helps keep your home safe.
Apartment Fire Safety Checklist
Here are some key fire safety practices that every resident should follow:
Safe Cooking Practices
- Don’t leave food unattended while cooking.
- Residents are encouraged to keep a kitchen-rated fire extinguisher or a fire blanket on hand.
- If the fire is spreading or you’re not comfortable using a fire extinguisher or fire blanket, evacuate and pull the fire alarm.
Candles, Incense, & Air Fresheners
- Never leave candles or incense burning unattended, while you sleep or while you’re out of your unit.
- Keep candles and incense away from curtains, bedding, and soft furnishings.
- Always place something underneath to catch wax or ash.
- Avoid heated plug-in air fresheners as they can overheat and pose a fire risk.
- Diffusers with water and essential oils are a safer alternative, as they don’t generate heat and often auto shut off.
Smoking Safety
- Smoking should only occur in designated areas.
- Cigarette or joint butts that are not fully extinguished can easily start a fire.
- Always use proper ashtrays. Never throw butts over balconies.
Heating Appliances and Electronics
- Keep space heaters away from furniture, bedding, and curtains.
- Only use space heaters in well-ventilated areas.
- Don’t fall asleep with a heater on.
- Use timers for heaters, heated blankets or heating pads to avoid overheating.
- Make sure your appliances and electronics have electrical cables that are not frayed or damaged.
Smoke Alarms
- It’s every resident’s responsibility to check smoke alarms in their unit regularly. Test alarms every six months to make sure batteries are working.
- If you notice an issue, call your Building Manager right away.
Batteries & Safe Storage
- Store batteries properly and remove them from devices if packing them away.
- Dispose of used batteries at approved drop-off points such as the City of London EnviroDepots, or at the “Smart Containers” located at one of six community locations like the Central Library or Storybook Gardens.
Outdoor Use
- Only use BBQs in approved outdoor areas. Ensure that they are shut off after use and not left unattended.
- Chimineas and similar outdoor fire pits are not permitted on balconies.
For more fire safety tips, including how to prevent fires in your apartment and what to do in an emergency, visit the London Fire Department Fire Safety Tips page.
How to find your fire evacuation route in your building
If a fire alarm went off right now, would you know where to go? Every building is equipped with clear fire evacuation routes, and it’s important to know yours before you need it.
- Locate the closest stairwell to your unit
- Find a secondary exit in case one route is blocked
- Never use elevators during a fire
- Talk about emergency plans with anyone you live with
Residents with accessibility needs (mobility, hearing, or vision challenges) must notify their landlord upon moving in, or if their status changes, so proper assistance can be arranged.
Remember: you must evacuate during a fire alarm unless it is a scheduled building alarm test.
How to use a fire extinguisher in an apartment building
Fire extinguishers are located throughout our residential properties and can stop a small fire from turning into something serious. But would you know how to use one safely?
If you’ve never used a fire extinguisher before, or feel unsure, remember the PASS method:
- PULL the pin
- AIM at the base of the fire
- SQUEEZE the handle
- SWEEP from side to side
Important: Residents should never use equipment located in the hallway cases, such as fire hose cabinets or standpipes. This equipment is for London Fire Services’ use only and should only be operated by trained personnel.
If you’re not confident using it or the fire is spreading quickly, leave immediately and pull the alarm.
For a quick visual guide, you can watch this fire extinguisher tutorial video.
Fire Alarm Testing and Training with London Fire Department
Your property manager should run scheduled testing to ensure alarms, sprinklers, and emergency lighting are working exactly as they should. Here are some things to keep in mind when this occurs:
- Keep hallways and stairwells clear
- Make sure you can hear alarms in your unit
- Never prop open fire doors
- You do not need to evacuate during scheduled alarm testing
- Attend any training sessions offered by your property manager. Summit partners with London Fire Services for annual fire safety training and all Summit Properties residents are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Why fire safety matters in Summit Properties buildings
When you live in a Summit Properties building, you are part of a community that values care, safety, and support. Fire prevention is something we all contribute to, and that starts with awareness.
If you have any questions about fire alarms, exits, extinguishers, or drills in your building, reach out to your Building Manager today.
Looking for safe rental apartments in London
Summit Properties offers secure, well-managed apartments in the west end of London. From walkable neighbourhoods to responsive building teams, we make it easy to feel safe at home.
Want to learn more about Summit Properties or book a tour? Contact us today to find your next home in a building that puts your safety first.