Safety Tips: Winter Fires

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.

• Never use extension cords with portable electric heaters.

• Turn off portable heaters when leaving or sleeping.

• An adult should always be present when anyone is using a space heater around children.

• Make sure your portable electric heater is UL approved and has a tip-over shut off function.

Woodstove and Fireplace Safety

• Have a certified chimney sweep clean and inspect your fireplace.

• Place ashes outdoors in a covered metal container at least three feet away from anything that burns.

• To prevent flue fires, burn dry, well-seasoned wood.

• Always use a fireplace screen made of sturdy metal or heat-tempered glass. If children are present, use a special child-guard screen.

Smoke Detectors

* Maintain working smoke detectors at all times.