In the winter the chances of having a fire go up, it is important to follow these tips to decrease the risk and minimize hazards. If there is ever an emergency at your house whether it be for Fire or EMS, we want to be able to get there quickly. Make sure that your house number is still visible from the road and that your driveway and paths to your house are clear.
Heating Systems:
Heating systems need to be checked each year to make sure they are running
safely and efficiently. Make sure your system is checked BEFORE the heating
season is in full swing. If there is a problem, you'll want to find out in
advance so you can avoid an emergency situation. If you heat with oil, you
should have the furnace cleaned once a year, and the oil supply plumbing
checked to assure it is not leaking. If you heat with gas, you need to make
sure all gas connections are tight and the pilot light is operating
properly. Remember, GAS IS EXPLOSIVE! All maintenance and repairs should be
done by qualified personnel.
Space Heaters:
Use space heaters for a limited time each day and never connect to an outlet
with an extension cord. When not in use, be sure to unplug the unit and let
it cool down if you will be storing the unit.Never use an unvented heater in
the home (kerosene) Never use heaters to dry clothing or other combustibles.
Chimneys and Flues:
Chimneys and flues are not just for fireplaces. Most home heating systems
require chimneys and flues to vent. Making sure they are unobstructed and in
good condition can help prevent a deadly backup of carbon monoxide gas in
your home. All chimneys and flues should be checked to assure that there are
no obstructions, clogs, bird nests, or mechanical damage to moving parts.
Any of these scenarios can lead to a build-up of deadly carbon monoxide
inside your house.
Fireplaces:
Before using the fireplace for the first time in a season make sure the flue
is open and unobstructed. If there are any obstructions, remove them. If not
removed, these obstructions will cause carbon monoxide to back up into your
home. Never leave a fireplace unattended. Fireproof mats or material should
be used next to your fireplace and stoves. Chimneys and vents should be
inspected and cleaned annually (see above). Don't burn newspapers or other
trash in a fireplace because they burn too hot and can ignite a chimney fire
and never use charcoal in the house. Charcoal produces massive amounts of
carbon monoxide. A small bucket or pot of water left handy near the heating
device can be used to douse any small embers that pop out onto rugs or other
combustible surfaces.
Coal and Wood Burning Stoves:
Use coal only if specifically approved by the stove manufacturer. Gasoline
or other flammable liquids should never be used to start a wood fire since
it might explode or flare up.
Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:
Test your home smoke alarms at least once per month. Do this by pressing the
test button on the unit. If your detectors are battery operated, check the
batteries often to make sure the units are operational. If you do not have
one already installed, install a carbon monoxide detector to detect
production of potentially lethal carbon monoxide by gas fireplaces, gas
stoves, barbecues, gas furnaces.
Personal Health and Safety:
In the cold weather, monitor young children, elderly family and neighbors,
as well as the sick, who are particularly susceptible to the dangers of the
cold. Don’t venture out in extremely cold weather unless absolutely
necessary. If you must go out, be sure to dress in layers with a water- and
windproof outer layer. A hat is a must as 40% of body heat is lost through
the head. Don’t smoke or consume alcohol before going out, because these
substances alter your body’s circulatory system, making you colder instead
of warming your body. Exercise caution when shoveling snow – overexertion
can sometimes lead to tragedy.