Baby, its cold outside, however, its getting expensive to turn up that oil heater. A growing number of home owners are turning to alternate sources of heating. People are turning to firewood, electric heaters, and gas fireplaces for added warmth, however, these heat sources present a brand-new set of warnings for fire prevention.
Electric heaters or electric fireplaces:
See to it you read your manufacturers instructions and obey the warning labels for your portable heater. Never leave it unattended, and always disconnect it when not in use. When you do disconnect the unit, pull the cord straight out to avoid cord damage.
Never plug the heater into a power strip or extension cord to avoid overheating. Keep flammable items a minimum of three feet away from the heater, and never block the air intake or outlet.
A Wood Fireplace:
Have a qualified person check and clean your chimney on a regular basis. Keep any combustible products far from the front of the fireplace, and cover the front with a glass or metal screen. Keep matches or lighters in a locked cabinet.
General Safety Tips:
Candles are commonly used throughout the holidays http://www.planoair.com/ac-repair-heating-repair-mckinney-tx.html . Never leave them unattended or burning in a confined area. Always use stable candle holders that are not likely to tip over. Blow out the candles when you leave the room.
Create an escape plan for the family, and practice it twice a year. Each room ought to have 2 exits, and select an outdoor meeting place. Set up smoke alarms on every level of your home. Mark a date on the calendar to check them monthly and change the batteries each time you change your clocks.
Clean the lint filter in your clothes dryer every time you use it. The build up of lint can catch fire.
Learn ways to put out a pan fire by sliding the lid over the flames and always keep a kitchen fire extinguisher handy.
Everyone in the family ought to know how to “Stop, Drop and Roll” if their clothes catch fire. To access the best air for breathing, practice getting down low, and crawling as an escape strategy. Keep emergency phone numbers handy.