Volunteer Fire Department

The Burpee Mills Fire Department is comprised of 25 volunteer men and women. It's mandate is to fight a fire from the exterior of buildings to put out said fire and/or stop it from spreading. This approach differs from a fire department that uses air tanks worn by its firefighters who would enter burning buildings. Entering a structure that is burning is much more dangerous and our township would be hard pressed to afford the insurance costs. Prior to the amalgamation of the Townships of Mills and Burpee there was very little evidence of firefighting equipement or training, but the new Township of Burpee Mills secured funding for the purchase of its first tanker truck and portable pumps. From there funds were raised locally through car washes, raffles, dances, suppers, dinners, and breakfasts. This would not have been possible without the help of local residents showing their support and the many firefighting volunteers that ran these functions. Special thanks goes out to ex-fire chief Fred Noland who got us to our present day supply of firefighting gear. Six additional bunker suits have recently been purchased enabling all twenty-five of our firefighters to suit up for fires. We currently run one tanker truck and a pumper/tanker truck with an assortment of firefighting gear including portable pumps, bladders, a chimney nozzle to fight chimney fires, as well as hydraulic vehicle extrication equipement recently donated to our fire department by Al Viita of Telstar Hydraulics, Sudbury Ontario. Fire Dept. Contacts Chief, Dennis Blackburn 282-8196     Deputy Chief, Jeff Middleton 282-2532     Prevention Officer, Nicole Middleton 282-0396 The above link tells you what to do before, during, and after an emergency. The mandate of the BurpeeMills fire department is to stop the spread of fire while trying to extinguish same - as we are a rural community, the initial responsibility lies with you. Have a fire plan and ensure all family members know the fire plan.

Be Safe - Be Alert:

The following Fire Tips were put together by The Oakville Fire Department.

Carbon Monoxide Detector Safety CO is a by-product of appliances that run on fossil fuels. CO and is often emitted from gas or oil furnaces, refrigerators, clothes dryers, water heaters, fireplaces, gas ranges and non-electric space heaters among others. A clogged chimney or improper venting can also cause these CO gases to accumulate in your home. The Oakville Fire Department recommends installing at least one CO detector in your home. Install your CO detector between the sleeping area and the remainder of the house. Be sure your detector is certified to the Canadian Standards Association CAN/CGA 619 standard or the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 2034 standard.

What is carbon monoxide?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, deadly gas. Because you can’t see, taste, or smell it, carbon monoxide can kill you before you know it’s there. Today’s more energy-efficient, airtight home designs contribute to the problem by trapping CO polluted air inside the home.

Why is carbon monoxide so dangerous?
The great danger of carbon monoxide is its attraction to hemoglobin in the bloodstream. CO is breathed in through the lungs and combines with hemoglobin in your blood, displacing the oxygen, which cells need to function. When CO is present in the air, it rapidly accumulates in the blood. It will eventually displace enough oxygen in your system to suffocate you from the inside out, resulting in brain damage or death.

Where does carbon monoxide occur?
A common by-product of appliances that run on flammable fuel, carbon monoxide can be emitted by gas or oil furnaces, refrigerators or clothes dryers, water heaters, fire places, wood stoves, charcoal grills, gas ranges and space heaters. A clogged chimney or improper venting can cause problems as well.

Who is at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning?
Everyone is at risk. Carbon monoxide poisoning can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere. Experts believe that vulnerability to CO poisoning increases for unborn babies, infants, senior citizens, and people with coronary or respiratory problems. These people are considered to be at greatest risk.

How do I know if I am suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning?
CO poisoning is difficult to diagnose. Because its symptoms are similar to other common diseases, such as the flu, carbon monoxide is often called “The Great Imitator”. Symptoms of low level CO poisoning can include headaches, fatigue, nausea, dizzy spells and confusion. There are, however, a few hints that can help. To identify carbon monoxide poisoning in your home:

Are other members of the household feeling ill as well? Do you feel better when you are away from the house for a period of time?
If so, you may be suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning. To be sure, see a physician and request a carboxyhemoglobin test. This will determine the percentage of carbon monoxide present in your blood.

Why wasn’t a carbon monoxide detector available sooner?
The technology simply wasn’t available. Twenty years of research went into the development of the Carbon Monoxide Detector.

What type of carbon monoxide detectors are available today?
Generally two (2) types of carbon monoxide detectors are available:
Electrically operated, which plug directly into an electrical receptacle located in the house
Battery operated

Which of the two (2) detectors is recommended for use in the home?
It is recommended that the homeowner base their decision on the following pros and cons of each unit:
Electric type detectors are easily installed by plugging into standard household receptacle and require less maintenance than a battery operated unit, however they do not provide protection during power failure and can take up to two days to recalibrate after the power supply has been interrupted.
Battery operated units are less expensive at initial purchase but require the replacement of the battery and sensing unit generally every two years at a cost of up to $30.00; however the battery unit does provide protection during power failure and can easily be installed in any location in the home.

How many detectors are recommended and where should they be located?
It is recommended that a minimum of one (1) detector be located adjacent to sleeping areas and if a second detector is purchased, it is recommended that it be located either on the main level or basement level. The ultimate protection would be provided if a detector was installed on each level of the home. Homeowners are to be reminded that detectors are to be installed in conformance with the Manufacturer’s recommended installation instructions.

What do I look for when purchasing a carbon monoxide detector?
Look for a detector that is U.L.C. listed to the new Canadian as Association Standard No. 619. The U.L.C. mark guarantees that the product has been tested in the areas of performance, safety and accuracy.

What should the homeowner do if the carbon monoxide detector sounds?
All persons in the home should leave the building. If anyone is suffering the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning, i.e. dizziness, lightheadedness, headaches, nausea or extreme fatigue, then a call should be made to 911from a safe location outside the house advising the emergency services of the problem. If the alarm sounds and no one is suffering the effects, call the Fire Department so they may verify that there is no carbon monoxide problem in the home.


What types of electrical concerns might homeowners come across?
The following are types of electical concerns homeowners might come across:
Sparking from switches or receptacles that heat up when in use
Connections or splices in wires not made in junction boxes
Open junction boxes and cover plates missing from switches and receptacles (it is being noted to the homeowner that these items pose a more severe shock hazard than a fire hazard)
Use of extension cords as permanent wiring
Over-fusing
Ground pins removed or bypassed on appliances with 3 prong plugs

Are extension cords permitted for temporary use?
Extension cords generally are designed for very temporary use only. Common problems with extension cord use are as follows:
Use of deteriorated or damaged cords
Cords running under rugs
Cords nailed to baseboards, door frames or window frames
Cords running through partition walls or floors
Cords permanently connected to permanent wiring by splicing or joints

What type of extension cords are recommended for use?
An extension cord being used in a temporary short-term situation should generally be of larger diameter than the cord on the appliance that is plugged into it. Also ensure that if the appliance is equipped with a ground pin the extension cord must also be equipped as such. Power bars with built-in breakers are a good alternative to standard extension cords.

How can homeowners overcome the problem in older homes of not having sufficient 3 prong receptacles for today’s appliances?
Ontario Hydro advises that properly installed GFI type receptacles can provide the required grounding for these appliances. The homeowner is to be urged to contact a qualified electrician to discuss this alternative.

What is the recommended amperage of fuses in normal household applications?
Generally, normal household circuits are to be protected with a 15 amp fuse. The wiring provided for these general household circuits is designed to carry a load of up to 15 amps. Over-fusing these circuits will allow the wiring to heat up before the fuse blows. If 15 amp fuses are continually blowing due to electrical motors starting up then the fuse should be replaced with a 15 amp time delay fuse which will allow the passage of higher starting current.


What type of portable extinguishers are recommended for use in the home?
A multipurpose dry chemical, type ABC is recommended. This type will handle fires encountered in the home.

What size of extinguishers should I buy?
For a typical home fire, the fire extinguisher should have a minimum rating of 2A10BC which weighs approximately 5 lbs. and this type of extinguisher should come equipped with a wall-mount bracket.

How many portable fire extinguishers do I need in my house?
We recommend you have a fire extinguisher where home fires commonly start:
in kitchen area
in basement area, and
in garage areas

Where should I mount my fire extinguisher?
Fire extinguishers should be mounted close to exit doors leading from the kitchen, basement, or garage. Extinguishers should not be in cupboards or directly beside appliances such as stoves and furnaces. If fire breaks out, you won't need to re-enter the building, or search for a fire extinguisher. If the fire is too big, get everyone out and call 911.

How long will my fire extinguisher last?
Extinguishers last for many years, if you take care of them. Fire extinguishers should be tested after 5 or 12 years depending on the type. See the manufacturer instructions for details.

Where do I take my fire extinguisher to be serviced?
Check the yellow pages of the local telephone directory under "fire extinguisher". Many companies offer to service fire extinguishers. under the heading of fire extinguisher.

What type of inspection do you need for portable extinguishers at home?
Check your fire extinguishers every month to ensure:
the pin in place
the seal is not broken
the pressure gauge indicates the required pressure
the discharge nozzle is not obstructed
Portable extinguishers also require service after each use. Take your fire extinguisher to a qualified technician every year.

Where can I purchase a portable fire extinguisher?
Portable fire extinguishers are available at stores such as hardware and department stores. Look for the ULC label when purchasing an extinguisher.


What are the Ontario Fire Code requirements for smoke alarms?
The Ontario Fire Code requires hom owners to provide and install working smoke alarms. The smoke alarm should be installed next to any sleeping areKeep smoke alarms well maintained at all times.

When should I change any battery?
Install a new battery for your smoke alarm at least once a year. When the low battery warning beeps, replace the battery immediately. We change our clocks each spring and fall, so this is a good time to change your smoke alarm batteries too.

How often do you test a smoke alarm?
Smoke alarms are generally tested in two ways as follows;
Do the beep test monthly to ensure the battery or electrical power supply is working.
Test the smoke sensing chamber every six months. Allow a smoldering piece of string to drift into the smoke detector to ensure that the smoke detection chamber is not blocked by insects or dust buildup.

Are there other locations recommended for smoke alarms?
The Oakville Fire Department recommends smoke alarms be installed on all levels of the home so fires can be detected in the earliest stages.

Are carbon monoxide detectors recommended for use in the home?
Yes. The Oakville Fire Department recommends a carbon monoxide detector for every home.

What do I look for when purchasing a carbon monoxide detector?
Look for a carbon monoxide detector that is U.L.C. listed to the new Canadian Association Standard No. 619. The U.L.C. mark guarantees the product is tested for performance, safety and accuracy.

Does the Oakville Fire Department conduct inspections of new woodstove installations?
No. A building permit is required for wood stove installation, and a mechanical inspector from the Building Department will inspect the woodstove.

When should homeowners inspect their chimneys?
Homeowners should have their chimneys inspected once a year. Have your chimney inspected every year before the heating season.

What types of portable extinguishers are recommended for use in the home?
A multipurpose dry chemical, type ABC is recommended for home use. This type of extinguisher will handle kitchen and other fires common in the home.

What size of extinguishers should be purchased?
For a typical home fire load, the fire extinguisher should have a minimum rating of 2A10BC which weighs approximately 5 lbs. This type of extinguisher usually comes equipped with a wall-mount bracket.


Smoke Alarm Safety
It's the law in Ontario to have working smoke alarms in your home. According to the Ontario Fire Code, a $235 fine can be issued for the following:
Failure to maintain a smoke alarm in operating condition.
Failure to provide smoke alarm instructions to occupants of a building.
Failure to install a smoke alarm as required (one smoke alarm on each level of a home with sleeping areas).
Intentionally disabling a smoke alarm to make it inoperable.
Replacing a smoke alarm, thus causing a reduced level of protection.

What are the requirements of the Ontario Fire Code requiring smoke alarms?
The Ontario Fire Code requires hom owners to provide and install working smoke alarms. The smoke alarm should be installed next to any sleeping areKeep smoke alarms well maintained at all times.

What are smoke alarms?
Smoke alarms are devices that combine smoke detection and alarm capabilities in one unit. Smoke alarms are powered by batteries or electricity. Certain types of smoke alarms can be interconnected so the sounding of one smoke alarm triggers all the smoke alarms in the system to sound off.

Are smoke alarms difficult to install?
No. To install a battery powered smoke alarm, all you need is a screwdriver and a drill. Hydro powered smoke alarms need a dedicated circuit wired directly to the electrical panel in the home. An “on/off” switch should not be installed on the smoke alarm and the electrical panel. An electrician should install these Hydro-powered smoke alarms.

When should I change any battery?
Install a new battery for your smoke alarm at least once a year. If the low battery warning beeps, replace the battery right away. We change our clocks each spring and fall so this is a good time to change your smoke alarm batteries too.

Where to install smoke alarms?
Because smoke rises, place your smoke alarms on the ceiling but no closer than 6 inches from any walls. If you cannot do this, place them high on a wall, but no closer than 6 inches from the ceiling and according to manufacturer’s instructions. There are certain locations to avoid such as near bathrooms, heating appliances, windows, or close to ceiling fans.

Are there other locations recommended for smoke alarms?
The Oakville Fire Department recommends smoke alarms be installed on all levels of the home so fires are detected in their earliest stages.

How long does a smoke alarm last, before it must be replaced?
Nothing lasts forever. Smoke alarms should be replaced every 15 years. After 10 years, your smoke alarm could be less sensitive to the products of combustion.

How often do you test smoke alarm?
Smoke alarms are generally tested in two ways:
Do the beep test monthly to ensure the battery or electrical power supply is working.
Test the smoke sensing chamber every six months. Allow a smoldering piece of string to drift into the smoke detector to ensure that the smoke detection chamber is not blocked by insects or dust buildup.

How do you maintain a smoke alarm?
Smoke alarms require the following maintenance:
periodic testing (see above).
gentle vacuuming every six months with a soft bristle brush attachment, and
replacement the battery once a year.

What in the best smoke alarm to buy?
There are many types of smoke alarms. Smoke alarms can be electrically connected, battery powered or a combination of both. The pause feature to reduce nuisance alarms is handy.

What are the different types of smoke alarms?
There are two types of smoke alarms, ionization and photoelectric. Both types are effective in providing smoke detection and early warning of fire.
Ionization smoke alarms use a small amount of radioactive material to create an electric current through ionized air. When smoke enters the detection chamber, it impedes or reduces the flow of current and causes the alarm to sound.
Photoelectric smoke alarms use a light source and photocell. When smoke enters the detection chamber, it scatters the light beam deflecting it to the photocell, causing the alarm to sound.

How do I know my smoke alarm is working?
Most hydro powered smoke alarms have a power-on indicator light. Check to see that the light is on. Some battery powered smoke alarms will produce a warning sound if the battery is low. Replace worn-out batteries immediately. The correct battery type is marked inside the smoke alarm. If you use the wrong type of battery, it could seriously affect proper operation of the unit.

Remember the following when it comes to smoke alarms:
Only smoke alarms that comply with ULC 531- 1987, “Standard for Smoke Alarms” are legal for sale in Canada under the Hazardous Products Act. When purchasing smoke alarms, accept only units that bear the Underwriters’ Laboratories of Canada (ULC) label.
The sensitivity of a smoke alarm is factory set to ULC standards, never attempt to adjust this setting yourself.
Ionization type smoke alarms contain a minute of radioactive material. The amount is not considered to be a health hazard.
Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on mounting, operating and testing your smoke alarms which come with the device at the time of purchase.
Replace batteries with the type recommended by the smoke alarm manufacturer. The correct battery type is marked inside the smoke alarm.

Who is responsible for the maintenance of the smoke alarms?
Homeowners are responsible for the maintenance of their smoke alarms. Landlords are reponsible for providing a copy of the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions to their tenants. Tenants should maintain the smoke alarm at all times.

Should homeowners buy a new extended life battery for their smoke alarms?
Extended life batteries are OK to use, but remember to test your smoke alarm regularly to make sure it's working.

What can be done about false alarms caused by steam and cooking smoke?
If you have a "nuisance' smoke alarm, here's what you can do:
Relocate the detector away from the source of the false alarms
Replace the detector with a unit that is equipped with a “pause” button to temporarily silence the alarm without removing the battery
Replace the unit with a photo-electric type smoke alarm. These units are less susceptible to false alarms from cooking smoke and steam, but are just as effective as ionization units in detecting something burning

Where can I buy a smoke alarm?
You can buy a smoke alarm in most hardware stores. Prices range from $5.00 to $25.00, depending on the features.

Are carbon monoxide detectors recommended for the home?
Yes. The Oakville Fire Department recommends a carbon monoxide detector for every home.


It should be recommended to the homeowner that an annual inspection and cleaning of their fireplaces/chimneys should be conducted by a W.E.T.T. certified technician.

What is a W.E.T.T. certified technician?
A W.E.T.T. certified technician is someone who has successfully completed a Wood Energy Technical training course and has passed the course and testing program administered by the Wood Energy Technology Transfer Inc. and is certified by that organization. W.E.T.T. certified chimney sweeps can be located in the yellow pages of the Telephone Directory.

Does the Oakville Fire Department conduct inspections of new woodstove installations?
No. A building permit is required for such an installation and a mechanical inspector from the Building Department will inspect the woodstove.

Is a homeowner responsible for inspecting his/her chimney?
Yes. The Ontario Fire Code states that the owner is responsible for compliance.
Article 2.6.1.2: Chimney and chimney liners that constitute a fire hazard shall be repaired or replaced in accordance with the Building Code.
Article 2.6.1.5: Chimney, flues and flue pipes shall be inspected annually and cleaned as often as necessary to keep them free from accumulations of combustible deposits.
Article 2.6.1.7: Chimneys, flue pipes and breeching shall be maintained in a safe condition. (Breeching are a particular type of flue pipe connection)

When should homeowners inspect their chimneys?
Homeowners should have their chimneys inspected now, if they have not been inspected within the last year. It is recommended that you have your chimney inspected every year before each heating season.

Can homeowners inspect their own chimney for corrosion?
Homeowners can inspect their own chimneys for corrosion. However, they may not have the necessary tools and equipment required to conduct a safe and thorough inspection. There are safety hazards associated with conducting a chimney inspection for which certified chimney sweeps are appropriately trained.
The Office of the Fire Marshal and the local fire departments strongly recommend that you have a certified chimney sweep or reputable heating contractor inspect your chimney.

Can I store my barbeque propane cylinders in my home?
No. Barbeque propane cylinders must not be stored within the home. Although the propane may not cause a fire to start, it would add an extreme hazard should a fire occur within the home. It is highly recommended that propane be stored in detached buildings, such as sheds or garages. If these types of buildings are not available to store the propane, the cylinders should remain outside and be kept a minimum of 3 feet away from any building openings.

What are some safety tips associated with barbeques?
Leak-check propane barbeques at the beginning of each season and after every cylinder change
Operate barbeques away from combustibles such as fences, decks, etc. and away from building openings.
Propane cylinders should be stored and transported in the upright position
Never transport propane cylinders in a closed vehicle.

Can flammable liquids such as paint thinners and gasoline be stored in the home?
Paint thinners, varsol, etc. should be stored in the original or approved safety containers away from any ignition sources (e.g.: furnace, hot water tank, etc.) if stored in the home. Gasoline should be stored in an approved safety container either in a detached shed or in garage.

Suitable For Printing:

The Oakville Fire Department also has a pdf document which is suitable for printing and displaying in your home or business.