Winter
Fire Safety Tips
Have Your Furnace Checked
Although this is something that many people believe they can do themselves, it is often safer to invest in hiring a professional to come and inspect your furnace annually.
Check Your Chimneys & Vents
Fireplaces can produce creosote which has the capability of igniting. If your family lights the fireplace often, you most likely need an annual chimney inspection.
Test Your Smoke Alarms
Check that your batteries are fresh and will last you through the winter. Always place smoke alarms in the kitchen, bedrooms, basement, and the laundry room.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Install these detectors if you have any fuel burning appliances (i.e. natural gas).
Cover Fireplace With A Screen
Either a metal screen or tempered glass will protect any sparks from leaving the fireplace.
Beware Of Space Heaters!
These devices require a good amount of space to be used without any fire hazards. Just like fireplaces, children and pets should not sit closer than 3 feet in front of a space heater. Avoid placing heaters near curtains, tablecloths or other flapping fabrics. Make sure your space heater has an automatic shut off switch, which forces the heater to shut-off as soon as it reaches a dangerously high heat level.
