Winter Fire Preventive Tips

1/12/2018 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association, December, January, and February are the months that half the heating fires occur.  Also in those same months, 1 and 7 fires heating equipment is reported as the cause of the fire.  Space heaters are often the leading piece of equipment the source of the fires in this months.  Almost 40% of the fires in December to February are space heater related. 

Safety should always be a top consideration when using space heaters.  Electrical Safety Foundation International has published several tips on safety while using a space heater.

• Make sure your space heater has the label showing that it is listed by a recognized testing laboratory.
• Before using any space heater, read the manufacturer’s instructions and warning labels carefully.
• Inspect heaters for cracked or broken plugs or loose connections before each use. If frayed, worn or damaged, do not use the heater.
• Never leave a space heater unattended. Turn it off when you're leaving a room or going to sleep, and don't let pets or children play too close to a space heater.
• Space heaters are only meant to provide supplemental heat and should never be used to warm bedding, cook food, dry clothing or thaw pipes.
• Install smoke alarms on every floor of your home and outside all sleeping areas and test them once a month.
• Proper placement of space heaters is critical. Heaters must be kept at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including papers, clothing and rugs.
• Locate space heaters out of high traffic areas and doorways where they may pose a tripping hazard.
• Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. Do not use an extension cord or power strip, which could overheat and result in a fire. Do not plug any other electrical devices into the same outlet as the heater.
• Place space heaters on level, flat surfaces. Never place heaters on cabinets, tables, furniture, or carpet, which can overheat and start a fire.
• Always unplug and safely store the heater when it is not in use.

Most of the U.S. is at risk for winter storms, which can cause dangerous and sometimes life-threatening conditions. Wind-driven snow, extreme cold, icy road conditions, downed trees and power lines can all wreak havoc to your home or commercial property. Home fires occur more in the winter than in any other season, and heating equipment is involved in one of every six reported home fires, and one in every five home fire deaths.

If you experience a fire, SERVPRO of LaGrange Park/North Riverside is here to help.  Give us a call at 708-240-4873 for all your fire, smoke, and soot damage related needs.  We work with your insurance companies to make your home look “Like it never even happened.”