Fire Safety Tips for Winter

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Fires can occur at any time, but there is often an increased risk of fires in the winter. There are several factors that can cause this increase.  

• Increased candle usage  
• Winter storms 
• Improper use of portable generators  
• Using different methods to heat the home. - This can include using space heaters, fireplaces, or wood stoves 

Some easy tips to prevent fires and practice fire safety in your Mid- Missouri home are:  

• If you use a space heater or portable heater in your home ensure that it has an auto shut off feature in case it ever tips over or falls.  
• Plug space heaters or portable heaters directly into an outlet, do not use extension cords or power strips 
• Turn space heaters or portable heaters off before leaving the room or house.  
• While using a fire place, place a glass or metal screen in front of the fireplace to prevent embers or sparks from catching anything nearby on fire. 
• Keep anything flammable or that could catch on fire at least 3 feet away from any heat sources or open flames. 
• Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in each room of the house and check them monthly to ensure they are working and have working batteries in them. 
• Have a professional clean and inspect your chimney and vents yearly.  
• Place candles on a sturdy surface and ensure there is nothing flammable nearby them 
• Ensure that you extinguish any candles before leaving the room or going to sleep 

If you have any questions about fire restoration or any other cleaning and restoration needs, contact SERVPRO of Jefferson City at 573-635-5883.