Winter in Lincoln City, Oregon, is a time for cozy gatherings, staying warm indoors, and enjoying the beauty of the season. But did you know that winter is also the top season for house fires? With more time spent at home and increased heating needs, the risk of house fires can rise significantly. At ServiceMaster Restoration Services, we want to ensure you have a safe and comfortable winter. Use these tips to manage common winter fire hazards and enjoy your home worry-free.
CANDLES
Candles add warmth and charm to any setting, but they also pose a fire risk. Candle fires peak during the winter months. When using candles:
- Keep them at least 12 inches from flammable objects.
- Avoid using candles in bedrooms where they might be forgotten if you fall asleep.
- Never leave small children or pets alone in a room with a lit candle.
- Extinguish candles whenever you leave the room.
SPACE HEATERS
Half of all home heating fires occur during the winter months. Space heaters can warm up any room quickly, but improper use can lead to dangerous fires. One in every seven home fires and one in every five home fire deaths involve heating equipment.
To use space heaters safely:
- Keep flammable items at least three feet from the heater.
- Turn off space heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.
- Have heating equipment inspected and cleaned each season by a qualified professional.
- Install carbon monoxide alarms and test them monthly.
- Plug only one heat-producing appliance into an outlet at a time.
FIREPLACES
Nothing is cozier than a fire on a cold winter’s night, but fireplaces require careful attention to avoid risks.
Keep these tips in mind when using your fireplace:
- Ensure the damper is open before lighting.
- Wait until all ashes are completely cool before closing the damper.
- Keep a screen closed while the fire is burning.
- Always extinguish the fire before bed or leaving home.
- Store cooled ashes in a metal container outside, at least 10 feet from any structures.
Additional Fire Safety Tips for Any Season:
- Install smoke detectors on every level and test them monthly.
- Practice an emergency evacuation plan with your family twice a year.
- Use the correct extension cords and weatherproof outlets for outdoor lights.
- Turn off electric blankets when not in use.
At ServiceMaster Restoration Services, we understand how important it is to protect your home and family. Even with these safety tips, accidents can still happen. If a fire impacts your home this season, call on us for expert fire damage restoration. With advanced tools, techniques, and years of experience, we’ll work to get your home back to normal as quickly as possible. Give us a call at 541-996-2255 to get help fast!
