Heating equipment is a leading source of home fires in Ontario. This includes fireplaces, woodstoves and chimneys. Proper care of this equipment helps keep the home safe.

Installation and cleaning

  • The Ontario Fire Code requires solid-fuel burning appliances (i.e. woodstoves) be installed and maintained in accordance with the CSA-B365 standard, Installation Code for Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances and Equipment.
  • Use a qualified technician to install woodstoves and fireplaces. They must follow the manufacturer’s instructions exactly.
  • Have a technician inspect and clean the heating system, vents and chimneys once a year.
  • Check that all outside heating vents are clear and not blocked by debris including snow and ice.

Using fireplaces and woodstoves

  • Always use a fire screen around a fireplace to stop sparks and embers from flying into the room.
  • Let ashes from a woodstove or fireplace cool completely before moving them.
  • Place cool ashes into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid.
  • Store the metal ash container outside and away from any buildings.

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

  • Install smoke alarms on every storey of your home and outside all sleeping areas.
  • Install carbon monoxide alarms on every storey of your home and outside all sleeping areas if your home contains a fuel-burning appliance, a fireplace, an attached garage, or is served by a forced-air fuel burning appliance not contained within the building.
  • Test every alarm once a month by pressing the test button and replace batteries at least once a year.

Learn more information on installing smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.