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Spring is the perfect time to freshen up your home. It’s also a great opportunity to make safety a priority. Burlington Fire responds to kitchen, laundry, and garage-related incidents every year, many of which could be prevented with a few simple precautions. Cleaning with safety in mind helps protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind.
To help you stay safe while tackling your spring cleaning, the Burlington Fire Department recommends the following checklist:
Kitchen:
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Clean greasy residue in the oven.
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Remove and clean filters above the stove.
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Pull out the refrigerator and vacuum the coils.
Laundry:
Most people stop their dryer inspection at the lint trap, but over time, lint can accumulate in other areas and create a fire hazard. Keep your dryer safe with these steps:
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Check the inside of the dryer drum and remove any buildup from lint trap after every use.
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Regularly inspect the exhaust tubes and outdoor vent flaps for lint.
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Unclamp and remove the exhaust from the back of the dryer. Use your hands, a hanger, or an extension brush to clear any hidden lint.
Living rooms, basements, and bedrooms:
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When washing windows, ensure they open and close easily as emergency exits. Having two ways out of every room and a safe meeting place outside is an essential part of every home escape plan.
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While removing ceiling cobwebs, lightly vacuum or dust smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and change the batteries. Alarms expire after 10 years, so be sure to replace them if needed.
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As of Jan. 1, 2026, all homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages must have carbon monoxide (CO) alarms on every level of their home and near all sleeping areas. As part of your spring clean, install, test CO alarms andreplace batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Garage and outdoor areas:
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Unplug any rechargeable devices not in use or actively charging. Lithium-ion batteries can overheat, catch fire, or explode if not handled or disposed of properly. Lithium-ion batteries are household hazardous waste and should never be placed in the garbage. Watch our Join the Charge video to learn more about battery safety and visit chargedforlife.ca.
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Gather old batteries for safe recycling. Place electrical tape on the ends of 9-volt batteries and drop them off at a community recycling depot. Do not throw them in the trash.
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Carefully dispose of rags with paint or stain. Oils in these products release heat as they dry, which can cause a fire. Dry rags outdoors and place them in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Add a water and detergent solution to break down the oils. Keep containers in a cool place, away from sunlight and other heat sources.
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Inspect your barbecue. Clean grease buildup and remove any nests or debris. For propane grills, check the gas tank hose for leaks before use.
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Move or remove leaves, wood piles, and other flammable materials from your home and sheds.
Electronic waste recycling:
While cleaning, consider taking old or unwanted electronics to the Burlington Fire Department’s community electronic waste recycling bins. Accepted items can be dropped off between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., seven days a week at:
Proceeds from the electronics recycling program support the Burlington Fire Department’s Vehicle Rescue Team. Learn more at burlington.ca/vrt.
Like these tips? Follow the Burlington Fire Department (@burlfiredept) on along on Instagram, X and Facebook for more fire safety advice, community updates, and program information.
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