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Fall chill is in the air. As you are turning on the heat or building your first fire, make sure you are taking the proper steps to keep your family and home safe. Heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fires, according to the National Fire Prevention Association.
We want you to be warm and #KitsapReady this fall and winter season - see heating safety tips below.
Safety tips for all heating equipment
- Keep or maintain a three-foot clearance between all heating equipment and anything that can burn.
- Have heating equipment and chimneys inspected and cleaned every year by a qualified professional.
- Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home.
Wood/Pellet/Coal-burning stoves and fireplaces
- Make sure your fireplace has a sturdy screen to prevent sparks from flying into the room.
- Dispose of ashes in a metal container - allow ashes to cool.
- Burn only dry, well-seasoned wood.
Portable space heaters
- Portable space heaters should be turned off every time you leave the room and before going to bed.
- Plug power cords only into outlets with sufficient capacity and never into an extension cord.
- Inspect for cracked or broken plugs or loose connections. Replace before using.
Fuel burning space heaters
- Always use the proper fuel as specified by the manufacturer.
- When refueling, allow the appliance to cool and refuel outside.
- When using the heater, open a window to ensure adequate venting.
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