Heating safety during colder months
Posted by Grant Bowman on October 18, 2018
According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment is the second-leading cause of home fires in the U.S.
As the cold weather settles in once again, we need to think about our homes and how to stay safe during the heating season. Being proactive in safety stops hazards before they happen. Below are some steps you can take to prevent fires, carbon monoxide poisoning and overheating circuits.
Portable heaters are often used when you have a room that doesn’t get enough heat or doesn’t have a permanent heat source. If you choose to use a portable heater, be aware of some safety precautions.
- If the portable heat is electric, it needs to be plugged into an electrical circuit that doesn’t have other heavy loads plugged into it or on the same circuit. Try not to use an extension cord, but if you must, double-check it’s rated for the correct amount of current (watts) your heater needs.
- Make sure the heater is placed in an open space, away from combustible materials. Don’t place pillows or clothes near them or in places where they might fall on the heater accidentally. Make sure to always turn off the heater when you leave the room or area for an extended period of time.
- If your portable heater is gas powered, it should not be used indoors. Please read the instructions for where it can be used and the outside environment requirements.
It is a good idea to have your main heat source serviced regularly to ensure it is working properly and efficiently. If you have a furnace or boiler, which can use natural gas, Liquified Propane (LP), oil or wood, then it needs routine maintenance. Gas fireplaces should also be checked regularly to prevent a fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Doing regular maintenance on your heating system will save you money, both from electrical usage and fuel cost. It will also help ensure that you don’t go without heat in the colder months.
By being proactive and keeping your heating equipment serviced regularly and used properly, you help keep you family more safe and comfortable during the cold months.