Space Heaters
Space heaters can easily become a major fire hazard. Avoid using them whenever possible, but if they become necessary, make sure to:
- Keep space heaters far away from loose or flammable objects, such as clothing, curtains, bedding and furniture.
- Keep at least a three-foot perimeter around space heaters at all times. This distance reduces the chances of nearby flammable items catching on fire.
- Purchase space heaters that come equipped with tip-over safety switches.
- Never leave space heaters turned on in unoccupied rooms, and never go to sleep or leave your home with a space heater turned on.
- Plug electrical space heaters directly into wall outlets, not multi-socket power strips. Only keep one space heater plugged into each electrical outlet.
- Refuel kerosene space heaters outside your home in a well-ventilated area and when they are cooled down.
- Only use the manufacturer’s specified gas type for gasoline-powered space heaters.
Fireplaces
Fireplaces, commonly found in living rooms, can make a room warm and cozy, but not properly maintaining them can increase the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. Always remember to:
- Have the chimney regularly cleaned and inspected by a certified professional.
- Provide proper ventilation for gas fireplaces and keep a working carbon monoxide detector nearby.
- Use only dry, seasoned firewood to prevent buildup of creosote (a flammable tar deposited from wood smoke).
- Use a sturdy screen to prevent sparks and embers from flying out of the fireplace.
- Keep the fireplace damper open while hot ashes are still in the fireplace. Closing it can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Do not use flammable liquid to start fires in fireplaces or wood stoves.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case the fire gets out of control.
- Extinguish fireplace fires before going to bed or leaving home.
