When you think of wintertime you may think of curling up in front of the fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa while listening to some Christmas tunes.
It’s a quintessential winter scene, that is until you think of some of the hazards that come along with it. The fact is, half of all home heating fires happen during the months of December, January and February.
You can still enjoy a cozy winter, but it’s important that you know how to do so safely. Here’s how to prevent winter home fires…
Heat Safely
Staying warm during the winter is crucial, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have safe heating habits.
With so many more house fires happening during the winter months because of home heating, it’s important that you know the best (and worst) way to heat your home. Space heaters do the job, but they are also responsible for many home fires.
If you do use a space heater, be sure that it is on sturdy, level ground and there is nothing flammable nearby. You should be in the same room at all times as your space heater, and if you need to leave the room it should be turned off. Avoid using an extension cord with your space heater.
You can also make sure your home is heated safely by making sure your fireplace and chimney are maintained and cleaned regularly to allow for proper airflow. No matter what you’re using to heat your home, but sure that you’re keeping all flammable items far away from your heat sources.
Create a Safe Mood
Candles are a great way to create a festive and wonderfully smelling environment. However, they do cause many house fires. You can use candles responsibly by making sure your candles are burning on a non-flammable surface with all flammable items removed from the area.
Wherever you decide to burn a candle make sure it is in a safe place where it won’t be easily knocked over or bumped. They should always be out of reach from all children and/or pets. If you need to leave the room, be sure to extinguish your candle. And no matter how magical it may seem, never light a candle on or near your Christmas tree.
General Safety
You can avoid a home fire by following a few general safety tips year-round. With any heat source, be sure that you are keeping flammable items far away so you can avoid any dangerous accidents.
Be sure to regularly inspect all cords and outlets for damaged or frayed wires, or broken outlets. These can all cause home fires, so it is best to stay alert and repair them as quickly as possible.
If the worst should happen, be sure you have a fire extinguisher on-hand, and that your family has a plan in case of a fire. Regularly check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and change batteries when necessary.
Help Is Available
If you do, unfortunately, experience a home fire, know that help is available. RestoreMasters can restore your home to the way it was before the fire happened, and eliminate the smell of smoke too.
If you need help, don’t hesitate to contact RestoreMasters.
