5 Winter Fire Safety Tips

Winter is a season full of fun activities, but it can also be dangerous if you’re not careful. It is a time when many people enjoy spending time indoors, with fires burning in the fireplace and space heaters on, so the risk of fire is increased. While this is a cozy way to spend the winter, it’s important to be aware of the fire dangers of using a fireplace. To stay safe while enjoying the heat this winter, follow the winter fire safety tips below:

1) Be Careful With Space Heaters

If you tend to use space heaters in the winter, then it’s important to take some precautions. They are typically not as well-ventilated as other heat sources like a fireplace, so they often come with more risks. Indeed, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind when using a space heater, such as:

  • Keep flammable items away from it to prevent them from catching fire
  • Only use your space heater as directed by the manufacturer

By taking extra precautions with your space heater, you’ll be able to minimize the risk of a fire breaking out this winter.

2) Check Fireplace and Chimney

It is important to inspect your fireplace, chimney, and flue each year to ensure they are free from debris. If you find there’s any damage or blockage, be sure to make repairs before using your fireplace.

Additionally, keep combustible materials, like books or furniture, away from your fireplace to help further reduce the risk of fire.

3) Test Smoke Alarms

It is important to check the smoke detectors in your home to see whether they work properly, as they can alert you to a fire before it becomes too dangerous. They’re not going to be much help if they’re not working!

Consider checking your smoke alarms at least once a month in the winter. This will give you the chance to see if you need to change out the batteries.

4) Choose Proper Fuel Type

Using the wrong fuel type in your fireplace can be extremely dangerous, so it is important to select the right type of wood and kindling for your fire. 

When using a fireplace, use only the recommended fuel type for that particular fireplace model, such as dried wood or coal briquettes. Burning other materials could lead to creosote buildup in the chimney or an accidental house fire.

5) Pay Close Attention to Candles

Whether it’s for the holidays or just some ambiance, a lot of people like to light candles during the winter months. And, as you can probably imagine, candles can be a huge fire hazard.

So, if you’re going to light candles, be sure to pay close attention to them while they’re lit. This means not leaving them unattended, and watching children and pets around them whenever possible. You never know what could happen!

Conclusion

We hope that you have found these winter fire safety tips helpful. Remember to take precautions during the colder months. Doing so will help keep your home safe from fire, as fires can easily start and cause extensive damage. Have a safe and warm winter!

If a fire does break out, then it’s always a good idea to have a fire extinguisher on hand. And if you need fire extinguisher services, you’ve come to the right place! Click here to get in touch with a member of the Fire-Alert team today.