RENTER SUFFERS HAND INJURY IN SMALL FIRE, AFTER USING UNAPPROVED ELECTRNIC DEVICE THEY FOUND IN UNIT

Mark Clairmont | MuskokaTODAY.com

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GRAVENHURST — A person suffered a hand injury Saturday night after using an unapproved electronic device they found in a short-term rental unit that caused a small fire.

Fire officials here say the person believed the unidentified device was safe to use because it was found with in the unit.

Fire officials say: “Don’t rely on others for your safety.

“Do what you can to protect yourself and your family,” fire prevention officer Kyle Steele said in a release Friday.

The Gravenhurst Fire Department recommends people keep the following safety considerations in mind when using battery-powered devices:

  • Always use manufacturer-approved charging cords.
  • Place devices on a hard, non-flammable surface while charging—never on a bed, couch, or near combustible materials.
  • Ensure devices have adequate ventilation to prevent overheating.
  • Unplug devices once they are fully charged to avoid overcharging.
  • Purchase only devices approved for use in Canada. Look for the CSA, UL/ULC, or ETL certification mark on the product. These markings confirm the device has been tested and certified as safe for sale and use in Canada.

The overarching framework is known as the Canadian Electrical Safety System, which relies on the Canadian Electrical Code (CE Code) for installations and CSA Standards (specifically Part II, under the CSA Group) for the safety and design of specific electrical devices and equipment.

Additionally, the GFD recommends the following when travelling:

  • Treat every location the same way you would your own home.
  • Confirm working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are present.
  • Identify all exits and plan two ways out of every room.
  • Inspect electronic devices and charging equipment in the unit for potential hazards.
Fire officials say: “Don’t rely on others for your safety. “Do what you can to protect yourself and your family,” fire prevention officer Kyle Steele said in a release Friday.

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