Winter Fire Safety

Stay Safe and Warm This Winter with Sound Beach Fire Department’s Safety Tips

As temperatures drop, the risk of residential fires increases. The Sound Beach Fire Department is committed to keeping our community safe throughout the winter season. Many cold-weather fire hazards can be prevented with awareness and preparation. Please review the following guidelines to help protect your family and home.

Heating Safety

Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths during the winter months. Whether you’re using a furnace, space heater, fireplace, or wood stove, follow these precautions:

• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment.

• Never use an oven to heat your home.

• Turn off portable heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.

• Have all heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.

• Use space heaters that are UL-listed and have automatic shut-off features.

Fireplace and Wood Stove Safety

• Always use a sturdy screen or glass door in front of your fireplace to prevent sparks from flying out.

• Dispose of ashes in a metal container with a lid and store it outside, away from the home.

• Ensure proper ventilation and keep flammable materials at a safe distance.

Carbon Monoxide Awareness

Cold weather increases the use of generators and heating devices that can produce carbon monoxide (CO), a silent and deadly gas.

• Install CO alarms outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home.

• Never use a generator, grill, or portable camp stove inside a home, garage, or near windows.

• If your CO alarm sounds, move outdoors immediately and call 911.

Candle and Lighting Safety

Power outages are common during winter storms. If you use candles for lighting:

• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn.

• Never leave a burning candle unattended.

• Consider using battery-operated flameless candles.

Electrical Safety

Holiday decorations and heating equipment can overload circuits.

• Do not overload outlets or power strips.

• Check cords for frays or damage before use.

• Use extension cords rated for indoor or outdoor use as appropriate.

Emergency Preparedness

Prepare your home and family in case of winter storms or power outages:

• Keep an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, blankets, food, and water.

• Have a family escape plan and practice it regularly.

• Ensure smoke and CO alarms are working properly.

The Sound Beach Fire Department encourages all residents to take these fire safety precautions seriously. By staying alert and informed, we can work together to prevent winter fire hazards and protect our community.

For questions or more information, please contact the Sound Beach Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Office.

Stay safe, stay warm, and stay vigilant.