How to Heat Your Home Safely This Winter

By theadmin

There’s nothing like the comforting crackle of an illuminated fireplace or the warm embrace of an electric blanket during the coldest days of the year. But even the coziest modes can morph into a heating hazard. Keeping your home warm during the colder months comes with a unique set of challenges and potential dangers, including the threats of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.

But there are basic, easy-to- follow precautions you can take to keep your home — and family — safe and warm this winter.

Portable Space Heaters

Give them some space! Portable heaters were the culprit behind about 1,700 residential fires between 2017 and 2019, according to a 2022 report by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Set up a minimum 3-foot perimeter around the heater — preferably on a hard, level, nonflammable surface — where kids and pet can’t get to it (and far enough away from curtains, pillows, or other bedding). Don’t forget to turn it off before you leave the room or go to bed. Better yet, unplug it.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas found in fumes produced anytime fuel is burned in lanterns, grills, fireplaces, or furnaces. CO is deadly and can poison people and animals without much warning. More than 400 people die each year because of it, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Installing carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home, especially close to bedrooms, is critical. Make a point to test the detectors and check the batteries regularly. (While you’re doing this, go ahead and check your smoke detectors too.)

Electric Blankets and Heating Pads

Even though you may love your grandmother’s hand-me-down electric blanket, remember that most electric blanket fires are caused by blankets that are more than 10 years old. Often, older models do not have temperature controls or auto shut-off options. While using the blanket, don’t fold or bunch up the fabric, and avoid resting anything on top of it to prevent overheating.

Electrical Outlets

Don’t overcrowd your electrical outlets or plug too many devices into an extension cord. A good rule of thumb is to never plug more than two appliances into an outlet at once. The proximity can cause the outlets to overheat, which could lead to a fire. Get into the habit of checking electrical cords — especially if you have a pet that likes to chew. These fire hazards can be difficult to detect but easy to prevent with a little maintenance.

Fireplace and Chimney Maintenance

At least once a year, hire a credentialed pro to inspect and clean your chimney, especially if you have a gas or wood-burning fireplace. Inspections can pinpoint problems — such as cracks or deterioration — that can lead to malfunction. (Although it seems harmless, a cracked chimney liner can allow carbon monoxide to seep into your home.) A clean chimney lessens the chance of a fire by removing creosote, a byproduct of burning wood.

Holiday Lights

The winter months usher in merry holiday celebrations with bright lights and magical decorations. Before you deck the halls, replace any string lights with loose bulbs or worn or broken cords. Look for flame-resistant or -retardant décor. Avoid hanging lights with nails; instead, use clips to avoid damaging the chord.

Firepits

Huddling around a firepit is the perfect cap for a fun fall day. Whether your firepit is gas or wood-burning, the base should be clear of debris that could catch fire. Before you light it, check weather conditions; too much wind or rain can work against you, and there might be a burn ban. Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby, and don’t pull chairs too close.

With these hazards top of mind, embrace all the wonderful things about winter in Texas.

A fire can happen in a flash. Go over your family’s fire plan so you know what to do should an emergency arise.