Winter is coming (ugh) and for homeowners this means being prepared for the utmost extremes; the frightful and the delightful!
Over the holidays and winter months in general, heat and fire are a big part of the festivities. This season poses an increased threat for fire-related incidents in the home, so it’s extremely important to learn about fire safety and taking the necessary precautions to ensure that you and your family have a warm and safe winter.
For starters, I am sure most of you have fired up your furnaces with this chilly weather we’ve recently encountered. It’s important to have the furnace inspected every year. Also, be sure to replace your furnace filter regularly.
Do you have a space heater? While I would advise against it, I realize that many people have them. I would make sure that you have the kind that turns off when it is knocked over. Please remember that space heaters need space! There needs to be a 3-foot clearance all the way around it. I had numerous people tell me last winter, that they ran them while they were sleeping. PLEASE don’t! When you leave the room, go to sleep or leave the house, they need to be turned off or unplugged. And have them plugged into an outlet, not an extension cord.
Do you have a wood burning fireplace? Fireplaces, if used, need to be inspected yearly by a licensed chimney sweep. Please don’t burn anything in your fireplace besides wood. Make sure when you clean it out (wait 48-72 hours) that you discard the ashes in a metal container, that you keep away from your house.
This time of the year is joyous; yet hectic with lots of activity and people at home. And obviously the kitchen is the heart of the home, especially during the holiday months. Exercise caution while cooking your large family feast. Use timers to remind yourself that there is something on the stove or in the oven.
Finally, you know what I am going to say! Make sure you have working smoke and CO alarms. Test them monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Remember that they are only good for 10 years, so if you need new ones, there is no time like the present. Be safe and enjoy time spent with family and friends!
