Prevent outdoor fires 

Fires can occur at any time. But in the summer, with the sun, heat, and barbecue, extra vigilance is needed to avoid accidentally starting a fire. 

Prevent accidents with the barbecue 

The essential appliance for a successful summer can become dangerous if misused. Here’s how to use it properly: 

• Choose a recognized model (CGA, CSA, ULC, WH/ELT, UL, or RBQ) and follow the user manual provided with the appliance. 
• Avoid placing it too close to a wall, plants, or other objects. Respect the clearance distances specified in the user guide. 
• Always store propane tanks outdoors. It is strictly forbidden to store a propane tank inside a residence or shed. 
• Clean and check the burners and supply lines of your appliance before using it for the first time each season. It is also recommended to perform a leak test on the lines and fittings using soapy water. 

How to use your propane bottle 

The bottle containing the gas for your barbecue also requires several precautions: 

• Check that it hasn’t expired. A bottle older than 10 years should not be reused. 
• Ensure it remains upright when transported by car. 
• Leave the car windows slightly open. If possible, leave the trunk slightly open during transport. 

Prevent fires caused by cigarettes

Fires often start on a balcony, terrace, or in a yard and then spread to a building. For everyone’s safety, here are some tips if you smoke outdoors: 

• Place cigarette butts in a fire-resistant container filled with sand or water. 
• Ensure that containers for cigarette butts are placed on stable surfaces. 
• Never extinguish your cigarette in a flowerpot, mulch, or landscaping. 
• Never throw cigarette butts over the balcony of an apartment building. 
• Ensure that cigarette butts are fully extinguished at all times. 
• Do not throw cigarettes or matches in the trash. 

Outdoors, the ashes! 

Did you know that the best way to dispose of hot ashes from your fireplace is to store them outdoors in a fireproof container with a lid? Then, wait at least 7 days before disposing of them in the trash. 

Beware of flammable outdoor installations 

People often use mulch made from wood chips in their garden beds to cover the ground. While useful for your garden, it is highly flammable. Follow these safety guidelines: 

• Keep cigarettes away from the mulch. 
• Keep the mulch damp. 
• Maintain at least a 45 cm (18 in) distance between mulch and combustible materials like your barbecue. 
• If installing lights on the mulch, follow the user instructions to prevent heat from causing a fire. 
• Use fire-resistant awnings, curtains, or trellises. 
• Never leave candles, torches, or outdoor fireplaces unattended. 
• Use extension cords labeled “outdoor use” and avoid using them permanently, as they are designed for temporary use only. 

Mosquito repellent spirals

Like any flammable item, mosquito repellent spirals should only be used for their intended purpose and in accordance with the instructions provided with the product. 

Spirals are designed to be used outdoors and should never be used indoors. Keep them out of reach of children and away from combustible materials. 

• Instructions may vary from one spiral to another, but typically: 
• Attach the spiral to the metal holder provided at purchase. 
• Use a match or lighter to ignite the end of the spiral, then immediately blow out the flame. It will burn slowly for several hours. 
• Place it on a fireproof plate to catch the ashes. 
• Extinguish it with a bit of water after each use. 
• Let it cool for 30 minutes before touching it. 
• Never leave it burning unattended. 

Fireworks

In Laval, the use of fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices is strictly regulated because: 

• It can cause serious injuries to both the person lighting them and those watching. 
• It increases the risk of fires for nearby properties. 

In Laval, a regulation requires anyone wishing to purchase fireworks to obtain a permit from the Laval Fire Department. This permit must be shown at the time of purchase. A permit is also required to possess fireworks in a park or on the shore. 

Even with authorization, handling fireworks always carries a risk of injury. To use them, you need to be skilled and exercise great caution. 

How to apply for a fireworks permit?

To apply, you must send an email to the Prevention Division of the Laval Fire Department. An inspector will contact you as soon as possible. 

Outdoor fireplaces 

Open-air fires are only allowed in outdoor fireplaces that comply with regulations. 

Before purchasing an outdoor fireplace, it’s essential to: 

• Understand the risks associated with its use, both from a safety and environmental perspective. 
• Consider the impact on your neighborhood to ensure harmonious cohabitation. 

The purchase of a portable liquid or gelled fuel fireplace may seem tempting, as the flames can appear less intense and more controlled than a traditional wood fire. Be aware that these products come with risks. Vapors can ignite, causing a deflagration. 

To enjoy your fireplace safely, it’s important to consult the regulations of the City of Laval.