How To Heat Your Home Safely

With the winter season in full swing, the likelihood of a house fire increases due to the improper use of heating equipment. Alternative heating can pose risks, if done carelessly. The Dix Hills Fire Department wants to take this opportunity to make residents aware of a few lifesaving tips.

“Following a few fire safety precautions will help protect your family and loved ones,” said Dix Hills Chief of Department Bill Stio. “Simple measures such as turning off a space heater when leaving the room and maintaining working batteries in your smoke detector greatly reduces the risk of fire or damage to your home.”

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), almost half of home heating equipment fires are reported during the months of December, January and February. In 2011, heating equipment was involved in an estimated 53,600 reported U.S. home structure fires, with associated losses of 400 civilian deaths, 1,520 civilian injuries, and $893 million in direct property damage. These fires accounted for 14% of all reported home fires.

Here are some home heating safety tips from the Dix Hills Fire Department to follow:

Space Heaters:

Use space heaters for a limited time each day and never connect to an outlet with an extension cord. When not in use, be sure to unplug the unit and let it cool down.  Keep a window ajar or the door open in a room where an un-vented heater is in use. Never use heaters to dry clothing or other combustibles.

Chimneys and Flues:

Chimneys and flues are not just for fireplaces. Most home heating systems require chimneys and flues to vent. Making sure they are unobstructed and in good condition can help prevent a deadly backup of carbon monoxide gas in your home. All chimneys and flues should be checked to assure that there are no obstructions, clogs, or mechanical damage to moving parts. Any of these scenarios can lead to a build-up of deadly carbon monoxide inside your house.

Fireplaces:

Before using the fireplace make sure the flue is open and unobstructed. If there are any obstructions, remove them. If not removed, these obstructions will cause carbon monoxide to back up into your home. Never leave a fireplace unattended. Fireproof mats or material should be used next to your fireplace and stoves. Don't burn newspapers or other trash in a fireplace because they burn too hot and can ignite a chimney fire.

Coal and Wood Burning Stoves:

Use coal only if specifically approved by the stove manufacturer. Gasoline or other flammable liquids should never be used to start a wood fire since it might explode or flare up. Never use charcoal in the house. Charcoal produces massive amounts of carbon monoxide.

Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:

Test your home smoke alarms at least once per month. Do this by pressing the test button on the unit. If your detectors are battery operated, check the batteries often to make sure the units are operational. If you do not have one already installed, install a carbon monoxide detector to detect production of potentially lethal carbon monoxide by gas fireplaces, gas stoves, barbecues, and gas furnaces. 

For additional winter safety tips on topics such as fireplaces, chimneys, winter driving, carbon monoxide detectors and more, please visit our website at:

http://www.dixhillsfd.org/wintersafety.php