As winter sets in, you must use various heating appliances to stay warm. However, with heat comes the risk of fire. Follow these five tips to keep yourself and your loved ones safe during the cold season.
1. Use certified appliances. Purchase heating appliances that meet current safety standards. Make sure they’re designed to shut off automatically if something goes wrong.
2. Give your vents breathing space. Ensure your heating vents are unobstructed. Avoid placing furniture or curtains in front of them, as this can lead to dangerous overheating.
3. Keep appliances away from flammable objects. Even minimal contact between a heat source and materials like clothing or books can spark a fire.
4. Call the professionals. Hire experts to inspect and maintain your heating system. They’ll ensure everything is running smoothly and identify potential issues before they escalate.
5. Turn off appliances when you’re away. Always switch off portable heaters and fireplaces when you leave the room. Be especially vigilant if you have young children or pets.
Whether you use an ethanol or wood-burning fireplace, or you rely on gas, oil or electric heating, prioritize safety in your home this winter.
