| With the recent frigid temperatures, many residents are relying more heavily on home heating sources such as furnaces, wood stoves, pellet stoves, fireplaces, and space heaters. The Granville Fire Company would like to remind everyone that cold weather increases the risk of home heating fires and to take extra precautions to stay safe.
Heating equipment is one of the leading causes of residential fires during the winter months. Proper use and maintenance of heating appliances is critical to preventing fires and carbon monoxide incidents.
The Granville Fire Company offers the following home heating safety reminders:
* Keep all heating equipment at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including furniture, curtains, and decorations.
* Never use ovens, grills, or outdoor heaters to heat your home.
* Have chimneys, flues, and heating appliances inspected and cleaned regularly.
* Turn off space heaters when leaving the room or going to bed, and never leave them unattended.
* Make sure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and working properly.
* Use only approved fuel for wood and pellet stoves, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
While ashes from wood and pellet stoves may appear cool, they can still contain hot embers. Always place ashes in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid and store the container outside, away from structures and combustible materials.
As temperatures remain cold, taking these simple steps can help reduce the risk of fire and keep your family safe throughout the winter season.
The Granville Fire Company appreciates the continued support of our community. Stay warm and stay safe. |
