Each winter the number of fire related deaths, and homelessness increases. There is much that can be done to minimize the devastating effect of fires.
Here are 10 tips that can make your winter season safer.
- Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order.
- If you lose power do not use a generator inside your home as this could result in carbon monoxide poisoning and that is why number 1 tip is so important.
- Make sure that your fireplace or wood stove was inspected and the chimney cleaned. Chimney fires are a frequent reason for a house burning down.
- Make sure your heating system was inspected by a professional; tuned up and you know where the emergency shut offs are.
- If you are using any fuel burning appliances especially in the bedroom make sure there is sufficient ventilation
- Make sure that the fire is out in the fireplace before going to bed.
- Make sure everyone in the family is aware of the emergency exits. Please do not block doors and window by piling up stuff in front of them. Houses with multiple level should consider having an escape ladder on hand.
- If using an extension cord make sure it is the same size or larger than the appliance.
- If you have frozen pipes, never use a blow torch to thaw it out, this could start a fire in the wall.
- Make sure that your driveway is plowed just in case you have a fire and the fire trucks need to get to the house.
Have a great winter free of fires.