Stay Safe and Cozy: Fireplace and Space Heater Safety Tips for Winter & Fire Damage Prevention

12/9/2024 (Permalink)

Winter brings chilly temperatures and a longing for warmth, often found around fireplaces or with space heaters.

Winter brings chilly temperatures and a longing for warmth, often found around fireplaces or with space heaters. However, these comforts can pose significant fire risks. Home heating equipment is one of the leading causes of house fires during the colder months. With a few safety tips and SERVPRO® on your side, you can enjoy the season while staying protected against fire hazards.

The Rise in Home Fires During Winter

Nearly half of all home heating fires occur in December, January, and February. Fireplaces and space heaters are cozy, but improper use or neglect can quickly lead to disaster. Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps can help reduce the chance of a fire in your home.

Fireplace Safety Tips

A fireplace is a wonderful winter feature, but it needs proper care:

• Schedule Maintenance: Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually to remove soot and creosote buildup.
• Use a Fire Screen: Always place a sturdy screen in front of the fireplace to catch sparks and embers.
• Choose Safe Firewood: Burn only seasoned hardwood to reduce excess smoke and avoid using flammable liquids to start the fire.
• Never Leave Fires Unattended: Always extinguish the fire before leaving the house or going to bed.

Space Heater Safety Tips

Space heaters are a quick way to warm up, but they require caution:

• Select the Right Model: Look for space heaters with built-in safety features like automatic shut-off.
• Placement Matters: Keep heaters at least three feet away from flammable objects like curtains or bedding.
• Avoid Overloading Circuits: Plug heaters directly into the wall and avoid using extension cords.
• Turn Them Off: Always switch off space heaters when you leave the room or go to sleep.

SERVPRO: Your Partner in Fire Damage Restoration

Even with precautions, accidents can happen. That’s where SERVPRO comes in. If fire damage strikes, our team is available 24/7 to assist with:

• Damage Assessment: A thorough evaluation of fire and smoke damage.
• Cleanup and Restoration: From removing soot to deodorizing your home.
• Rebuilding: Restoring your property to its pre-fire condition, "Like it never even happened."

Stay Warm and Safe This Winter

Your safety is the top priority. By following these tips and keeping SERVPRO’s contact information handy, you can enjoy the comfort of winter without worry. For expert fire damage restoration, trust the team that’s faster to any size disaster—SERVPRO.