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Mission Statement
To build a stronger fire service and better protect Manitobans.
No matter where you travel in Manitoba there is a spirit of dedication, commitment and pride displayed by our Emergency Services. The ability to respond to the public in a time of need bonds all Emergency Service providers together.
The Office of the Fire Commissioner (OFC) is a very diverse organization covering many aspects of Public Safety. Our website will provide you with information on each of our sections, which have their own unique set of priorities and goals. From Fire Investigations, Fire and Building Code application, to Emergency Response and Training, we believe our organization continues to meet the challenges of today's Emergency Services.
As the temperature remains cool, there are some simple things Manitobans can do to stay safe during these colder months:
General Heating:
- Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.
- Make sure fuel-burning equipment is vented to the outside and kept clear of snow, ice and other debris around the outlet to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Wood Burning:
- Burn dry, well-seasoned wood in fireplaces and woodstoves to reduce the risk of excessive creosote build-up in chimneys.
- Allow ashes from your fireplace or woodstove to cool before emptying them into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Keep the container outside.
- Closely supervise children and pets around fireplaces and have a “kid-free-zone” of at least 3 feet (1 metre) away from the fireplace.
Portable Electric Space Heaters:
- Keep space heaters at least 3 feet (1 metre) away from anything that can burn, including curtains, upholstery and clothing.
- Turn heaters off when you go to bed or leave the room.
- Purchase and use space heaters that have an automatic shut-off if they tip over, they shut off.
- Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets and never into an extension cord or power strip.
Electrical:
- Replace worn or damaged electrical wires and connections on vehicles and extension cords and use the proper gauge extension cord for vehicle block heaters.
- Consider using approved timers for vehicle block heaters rather than leaving heaters on all night.
- Ensure that vehicles are not left running inside any garage or building.
- Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets and never into an extension cord or power strip.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms:
- Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home. Don’t forget about the basement!
- Test smoke alarms once a month using the “test” button.
- If you hear “BEEP BEEP BEEP” leave your home immediately and call 9-1-1.
- Install carbon monoxide alarms in each sleeping area and on every level of your home.
- Test carbon monoxide alarms once a month. Dangers of carbon monoxide are headache, nausea and drowsiness.
For more tips, videos and other important safety messages visit Fire && Life Safety Education web page.
You can find more information about smoke and carbon monoxide alarm requirements at the Fire & Life Safety Education web page, by contacting the Office of the Fire Commissioner or your local fire department.
Some links within this website may lead to other sites.
The Province of Manitoba, nor the Office of the Fire Commissioner do not necessarily endorse or approve of the opinions and materials appearing in such sites.
Information on this site is provided as a public service. Readers should verify the information before acting on it.
Not all services provided by the OFC are available in French. French content has been included where possible.
Personal information provided by you will only be used in providing the service you requested. This is in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA).
