Mississauga Shares Winter Safety Checklist to Help Prevent Fire Emergencies
City highlights fire, carbon monoxide and ice-safety precautions as winter season begins
MISSISSAUGA — As temperatures drop and holiday activities ramp up, Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services (MFES) is urging residents to take extra precautions during what is traditionally the busiest time of year for preventable home fires. The City has released its official Winter Safety Checklist, offering practical steps to help households reduce fire risks, prevent carbon monoxide exposure and stay safe around frozen bodies of water.
MFES says winter brings an increase in home fire emergencies due to cooking, heating equipment, seasonal decorations, and the growing use of lithium-ion battery-powered devices and gifts. The checklist encourages residents to stay alert, informed and prepared as the winter season begins.
Fire Safety Tips for the Home
Residents are encouraged to follow key winter fire-prevention measures, including:
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Monitoring kitchen appliances closely and ensuring all appliances—including countertop devices such as air fryers—are turned off after use.
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Reading appliance manuals to understand safety instructions and hazard warnings.
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Keeping flammable items such as furniture, bedding, curtains and clothing at least three feet away from heat sources such as fireplaces, stoves, furnaces and portable heaters.
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Supervising children and pets near fire hazards, including candles and fireplaces.
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Having heating equipment and chimneys professionally inspected and cleaned annually.
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Avoiding the use of room-freshening sprays or aerosols near flames or heat sources.
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Checking holiday décor for damaged cords, keeping extension cords out from under rugs and keeping real Christmas trees well-watered and away from heat sources.
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Ensuring guests are aware of fire-escape plans and designated meeting points.
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Confirming working smoke alarms are installed on every floor and outside all bedrooms; replacing alarms older than 10 years.
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Clearing snow from fire hydrants located on or near residential properties.
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Remains a Priority
With many residents purchasing electronics and battery-powered gifts during the holiday season, MFES is reminding the community to follow safe charging practices.
Common items powered by lithium-ion batteries include cellphones, laptops, power tools, vacuums, e-bikes, e-scooters, hoverboards, electric lawn equipment, rechargeable beauty devices, electric toothbrushes and electric vehicles.
Safety recommendations include:
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Charging devices only on hard surfaces, not on soft furniture or fabric.
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Purchasing devices and replacement batteries from reputable retailers.
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Being aware that e-scooters and e-bikes are not permitted on MiWay buses or bike racks.
MFES reports that due to ongoing education efforts throughout 2025, the City has recorded zero lithium-ion battery-related injuries in Mississauga.
New Carbon Monoxide Alarm Requirements Coming January 1, 2026
Carbon monoxide (CO) is odourless and colourless, making alarms critical for detection. Starting January 1, 2026, updates to the Ontario Fire Code will require CO alarms on every floor of all homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages.
Residents are urged to:
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Never leave a vehicle idling in a garage, even with the door open.
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Clear snow and ice from vents for furnaces, dryers and fireplaces.
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Confirm CO alarms are installed and maintained if renting; landlords are responsible for meeting the new code requirements.
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Inform seniors and vulnerable loved ones about the upcoming requirements and assist with installing alarms where needed.
Ice Safety: Stay Off Frozen Lakes, Ponds and Rivers
MFES is reminding residents that while skating rinks and toboggan hills are open for winter enjoyment, ice-covered natural bodies of water remain unsafe.
The City warns:
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To stay off frozen lakes, rivers, ponds and creeks, which are unstable and dangerous due to fluctuating temperatures and water levels.
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To keep children and pets away from ice near shorelines.
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To call 911 immediately if someone or a pet falls through the ice and avoid attempting a rescue.
Stepping onto frozen bodies of water is also prohibited under Mississauga’s Parks By-law.
Staying Safe All Winter Long
The City encourages residents to review the full winter safety checklist and explore additional online resources. With the right precautions, many seasonal emergencies can be prevented.
Source: City of Mississauga — Official News Release, November 25, 2025
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