As the winter progresses and temperatures continue to vary day to day, you may be using different methods to heat your home. While keeping your home comfortable is a priority, it is important to make sure your home and loved ones are safe. Half of home heating fires occur between December and February. Follow these tips to keep your home safe and comfortable this winter.
Keep a Safe Perimeter & Keep Your Fireplace Clean
Whether you are using a furnace, fireplace or a portable heater, make sure there is a wide perimeter of at least three feet set to prevent fires and burns to pets or children who are too close. Any flammable decorations, such as rugs, curtains, and wall hangings should be kept outside of the “safe zone.” Make sure a screen is in front of your fireplace when it is lit to keep sparks from flying out into the room and have your chimney professionally examined and cleaned at least once per year to prevent blockages.
Follow Manufacturer Instructions
Whether you are plugging in a space heater to an extension cord or filling a fuel-burning heater, be sure to follow all instructions and guidelines set by the manufacturer. If you are using a space heater that requires fuel, read the instructions and make sure the right fuel is being used. The wrong grade of gasoline can cause the machine to malfunction and cause it to spark. Certain extension cords may not be suitable for running the level of electricity needed to keep the external heater operational, and overloaded cords can spark quickly. Electrical issues account for up to 68,000 fires each year, and reading the instructions is instrumental to using alternative heating options safely.
Test Your Smoke Alarm & Carbon Monoxide Detectors Monthly
If a fire breaks out in your home while you are in a separate room, your smoke alarm will be able to detect the issue before you notice. Carbon monoxide is clear, odorless and tasteless, making it virtually undetectable until symptoms begin to set in. The batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be changed every six months to prevent system failure and tested once per month to make sure the system is functioning properly, and the entire fire alarm system should be replaced every ten years. If you notice something is not working, contact a professional to inspect and service the system.
Fire Alarm & Carbon Monoxide Detector Service in South Shore
If you require service of your fire alarm and carbon monoxide detection systems, contact Basco Security today! Basco Security offers full alarm service, installation and repair, and will swap out older systems. For a free estimate, call Basco Security at 781-294-4166, or fill out our online form.
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