Summer Home Improvement Safety Tips from Coquitlam’s Fire Chief

As summer approaches and more residents in Coquitlam take on home improvement projects, Fire Chief Scott Young is urging caution due to the increased fire risk. With hotter and drier conditions, construction tools can easily spark fires that spread quickly. Chief Young advises using fire-resistant construction materials to minimize the risk of blazes getting out of control.

To prevent fires, Chief Young recommends having a preparedness plan in place, including fire protection protocols and construction fire safety plans. Additionally, using fire-resistant roof materials, building decks with non-combustible materials, and keeping flammable debris away from the home can help reduce the risk of fires.

For homes near forests, such as those on Burke Mountain and Westwood Plateau, the risk of wildfires spreading is especially high. Coquitlam imposes a $500 fine for smoking on trails and in parks during the summer to help prevent wildfires in these wildland-urban interface areas.

By following these safety measures and being mindful of the fire risk, residents can enjoy their home improvement projects while staying safe this summer.