Working from home, safely

July 4, 2020 10:00 a.m.

Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service’s guide to a safe home office during COVID-19

Throughout the global COVID-19 pandemic, people have shifted the way and where they do their jobs with many working from home and practising physical distancing. As we continue to adjust to this “new normal,” it is important to ensure fire prevention and general safety precautions remain top of mind. 

Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service has the following tips for residents who are working from home: 

  • If you don’t already have one, develop and practise your home fire escape plan with everyone in your household.
  • Keep your home’s exits clear and easy to access.
  • Keep your workspace clean and free from clutter – don’t stack papers on top of your laptop, computer or monitors and allow space between items that give off heat.
  • Use power bars with a circuit breaker and surge protector and ensure the power bars have the logo of an accredited product safety testing agency such as CSA or Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC).
  • Avoid running electrical cords under furniture or rugs where they can easily be damaged.
  • Fix and replace frayed electrical cords – a damaged cord can expose wires and result in a potential shock or fire hazard.
  • Extension cords should be used only as a temporary connection and should not be linked together – use an extension cord that is long enough to do the job.
  • Avoid overloading a circuit with “octopus outlets” – if additional outlets or circuits are required, have them installed by a licensed electrician. 

These are just some of the safety precautions that can help keep you and your family safe at home. For more information about fire tips and prevention, visit vaughan.ca/fire. 

Those who feel unwell and believe they have symptoms related to COVID-19 should contact York Region Public Health or Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000. For additional information and resources on COVID-19, visit York Region's website at york.ca/COVID19. 

For more information about City matters, please call Access Vaughan at 905-832-2281 or visit vaughan.ca. 

To receive the City’s latest COVID-19 updates as they happen, sign up for the City Update eNewsletter at vaughan.ca/CityUpdate and follow the City’s Twitter, Facebook and Instagram channels. 

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