Baby, its cold outside, but, its getting costly to turn up that oil furnace. Increasingly more home owners are turning to alternate sources of heating. Individuals are turning to fire wood, electric heaters, and gas fireplaces for added heat, but, these heat sources present a brand-new set of cautions for fire prevention.
Electric heaters or electric fireplaces:
Make sure you review your manufacturers directions and heed the warning labels for your mobile 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 prevent cord damage.
Never plug the heater into a power strip or extension cord to prevent getting too hot. Keep flammable objects at least 3 feet away from the heater, and never block the air intake or outlet.
A Wood Fireplace:
Have a certified person inspect and clean your chimney on a regular basis. Keep any flammable items away from the front of the fireplace, and cover the front with a glass or metal screen. Store matches or lighters in a locked cabinet.
General Safety Pointers:
Candles are generally used during the holidays. 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 strategy for the family, and practice it two times a year. Each room ought to have 2 exits, and select an outdoor meeting point Heating And Cooling Tucson AZ . Install smoke alarms on every level of your house. 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 clothing dryer whenever you use it. The build up of lint can ignite.
Find out ways to put out a pan fire by sliding the lid over the flames and always keep a kitchen fire extinguisher handy.
Everybody in the family should know how to “Stop, Drop and Roll” if their clothes ignite. To access the very best air for breathing, practice getting down low, and crawling as an escape method. Keep emergency contact numbers handy.