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Winter Fire Safety Reminders
1/2/2019 (Permalink)
Most believe winter time is the prime time for home fires. Let’s face it, we are engaged in activities that increase our chances for a home fire. Holiday decorations, an increase in cooking and baking, and trying to keep our homes warm are all potential fire hazards. Interestingly, according to the U.S. Fire administration (usfa.fema.gov) winter fires only account for 8% of U.S. fires. But here is the kicker; winter fires account for over 30% of fire related fatalities. We at SERVPRO of Carthage/Joplin believe an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Here are a few reminders to help keep your family safe.
- Candle Fires: Candles are the number one cause of home fires in the U.S. Always keep candles away from any combustible materials. See our blog from earlier this year for more information.
- Space Heaters: Heating with space heaters may be a necessity for many but theses can be deadly. The high fatality rate associated with space heater fires is linked to their close proximity to highly flammable bedding. Keep ALL objects at least three feet away from a running space heater. Here is some more information https://www.SERVPROcarthagejoplin.com/blog/post/68885/fire-smoke-damage-restoration/use-electric-space-heaters-safely
- Fire places: The leading cause of home fires linked to the fire place is chimney fires or flue fires. Built up creosote can ignite causing a very bad situation. Have your chimney cleaned and inspected annually. https://www.SERVPROcarthagejoplin.com/blog/post/67675/fire-smoke-damage-restoration/prevent-chimney-fires
- Smoke detectors: Please test you smoke detectors! So many people believe that the detector hanging in their house will save their lives but so many do not keep up the regular maintenance or testing. This is a blog from back in the spring but the important information you need to know so your detector is in good working order is included. https://www.SERVPROcarthagejoplin.com/blog/post/89715/fire-smoke-damage-restoration/add-smoke-alarm-inspection-to-your-spring-cleaning-routine-