Simple Steps for a Fire-Safe Home
October 21, 2026: During Fire Prevention Month, Tarion is encouraging homeowners to take a few simple steps to help reduce the risk of household fires and keep their homes and families safe year-round.
“Fall is a great time for homeowners to give their homes a little extra attention,” says Peter Balasubramanian, President and CEO of Tarion, the independent consumer protection organization that administers Ontario’s new home warranty program. “Some simple maintenance can go a long way to helping homeowners stay safe and avoid problems during the colder months ahead.”
Tarion is encouraging homeowners to add four important safety checks to their fall maintenance routine this year.
Replace Your Furnace Filter and Clear the Surrounding Area
A clogged furnace filter can restrict airflow and may cause the furnace to overheat. Replace or clean the filter following the manufacturer’s recommendations and keep the area around the furnace clear of boxes, paper, paint, and other flammable materials.
Clean Your Dryer Vent
Lint and debris can accumulate inside a dryer vent and around the exterior opening over time. Disconnect and clean the vent using a vacuum or dryer vent cleaning kit and remove any buildup around the exterior vent flap. Be sure to securely replace the exterior vent cover once the cleaning is complete.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are one of the most important safety features in any home and play a critical role in protecting you and your family. Take a few minutes to test all alarms and replace batteries or devices when necessary. This is especially important as temperatures drop, windows remain closed, and heating systems are used more frequently.
Clean and Inspect Your Chimney
Before using your fireplace or wood-burning stove for the first time in the season, you should inspect your chimney and consider having it professionally cleaned to remove soot and other debris that could ignite.
By taking a proactive approach to seasonal home maintenance and fire prevention, you can help identify potential safety concerns before they become serious. For more homeowner maintenance information, including a monthly home maintenance checklist, visit Tarion.com.
About Tarion
Tarion is an independent, not-for-profit consumer protection organization designated by the provincial government to administer the Ontario New Home Warranties Plan Act. Tarion provides education, warranty support and dispute resolution services to Ontario’s new home buyers and builders and has been providing consumer protection to Ontarians since 1976.