Winter Heating Hazards

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

50% of all residential heating-related fires are reported during the months of December, January, and February.

Even in Florida, winter brings us shorter and colder days. Most of us like a comfortable and cozy room whether it be in the workplace or our homes. Did you know that heating equipment is the leading cause of home fire deaths? According to the National Fire Protection Association, $1 billion in property damage is due to heating equipment. Some of the common sources are fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, and portable heaters. 

Here are a few safety tips this winter.

• Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from any heating source
• keep yourself, children, and pets at a three-foot radius away from any open fires or portable heaters

• Make sure all fireplaces have a metal screen in front of them and all ashes are cool before disposing
• Always turn off portable heaters when leaving a room or going to bed
• Always use the correct fuel for space heaters 
• Ensure all chimneys are cleaned and inspected annually
• All heating equipment installation needs to be done by a professional 

• Test all smoke alarms monthly