More fires occur during the winter
months than at any other time. Fortunately, taking simple
precautions can prevent most fires. Follow the safety tips below to
help ensure your safety:
Portable Heaters
-Put at least three feet of empty space between the heater
and everything else.
-Vacuum and clean the dust and lint from all heaters.
-If the cord gets hot, frayed or cracked, have the heater serviced.
-Turn off portable heaters when leaving or sleeping.
-Do Not Overload Electrical Outlets
-An adult should always be present when using a space heater.
-Make sure your heater is UL approved and has a tip-over shut off
function.
Fireplaces
-Inspect your chimney regularly for cracks and obstructions.
-Don't let creosote build up in your chimney, as it could set off a
roof fire.
-Don't "over build" your fire using too much paper. You could
ignite the soot in your chimney.
-Never burn charcoal in your fireplace. It gives off deadly carbon
monoxide.
-Keep your damper open if there are hot ashes in your fireplace.
Holiday Lights
-Maintain Your Holiday Lights - Inspect holiday lights each year
for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation,
broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear before
putting them up. Use only lighting listed by an approved testing
laboratory.
-Do not link more than three light strands, unless the directions
indicate it is safe.
-Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the
cord into the outlet.
-Make sure to periodically check the wires-- they should not be
warm to the touch.
Candles
-Place candles in sturdy, fireproof candleholders where they cannot
be knocked over.
-Make sure all candles are out before going to bed or leaving the
house.
-Keep candles, matches, and lighters out of children's reach.
-Keep candles away from evergreen clippings, decorations, wrapping
paper, etc.
