Winter Fire Safety Tips

12/18/2021 (Permalink)

Heating, cooking, decorations, and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during the winter months.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, home fires occur more in winter than in any other season.

Safety Guidelines for Fire Prevention This Winter

Wood-Burning Appliances

• Before firing up a wood stove or fireplace, have the chimney inspected annually and cleaned.
• Keep a glass or metal screen in front of a fireplace to prevent embers or sparks from flying out into the surrounding area.
• Never use excessive amounts of paper to overbuild a fire in fireplaces.
• If you use synthetic logs, follow the directions on the package. Use only one synthetic log at a time and never break one apart to quicken the fire.

Gas Furnace

• Have your furnace inspected to ensure that it’s in good working condition.
• Inspect the walls and ceiling near the furnace and along the chimney line.
• Check that the flue pipe and pipe seams are well supported and without holes and cracks.

Other Fire Safety Tips

• Keep portable generators outside, away from windows, and as far away as possible from your home to prevent carbon monoxide build-up.
• If you use electric heaters, plug only one heater into a wall outlet at a time to avoid overloading the circuit.
• Avoid using electric heaters in bathrooms or other areas where water is frequently used.
• Regularly plan and practice your fire escape plan with your family. Establish two exits in each room.

Contact SERVPRO of East Greenville County Fire Restoration Services

Do not let a fire ruin your winter. Check out more home heating safety advice and remember to be fire smart whenever you’re using heating devices!