Fire Prevention Week: Cook with Care

Public Service Announcement
Fire Prevention Week: Cook with Care
October 10, 2025 – Iqaluit, Nunavut

As Fire Prevention Week comes to a close, the City of Iqaluit reminds residents that some fire risks are always present, and kitchen fires remain one of the most common causes of home fires throughout the year.

Never leave cooking unattended, especially when frying with oil. Fires can start quickly and spread in seconds. In smaller kitchens, be mindful of where flammable items are placed. Keep towels, clothing, and oven mitts well away from the stovetop.

If a pot catches fire, slide a lid over it to smother the flames and turn off the heat. Never attempt to move a burning pot, and never use water on a grease fire. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and ensure everyone in your household knows how to use it. Also, never leave small appliances like toasters, air fryers, or slow cookers running unattended.

This final message wraps up a week of fire prevention tips focused on reducing risk in our homes and community. Throughout the week, we have encouraged residents to:

  • Install and test smoke alarms on every floor and outside sleeping areas
  • Buy certified products and avoid unsafe, off-brand electronics
  • Charge devices safely, using approved chargers and keeping them away from flammable materials
  • Plan two ways out of every room and practise escaping to a warm, safe meeting place
  • Recycle lithium-ion batteries properly by bringing them to the City Landfill
  • And of course, stay alert while cooking and keep your kitchen safe year round

Fire safety does not end with Fire Prevention Week. It continues with the choices we make every day. Thank you to all residents for taking steps to help protect your homes, families, and neighbours.

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For additional information, please contact:

Geoff Byrne
Communications and Customer Service Manager
City of Iqaluit
867-979-5619 | G.Byrne@iqaluit.ca