News
January 7, 2009
Winter Weather Poses Fire Threat
As temperatures continue to drop and the threat of winter weather rises, so does the threat from the leading cause of home fires nationwide – improper use and maintenance of heating equipment.
Every year, hundreds of people die, thousands are injured and more than 100,000 homes are destroyed or damaged by fires caused by the improper use and maintenance of heating equipment.
“Space heaters and other portable heating devices present serious fire hazards because of their potential for improper use and are the cause of many home fires,” said Raleigh Fire Prevention Education Specialist Ronald Campbell. “Most of these fires can be prevented if users of home heating equipment observe the following simple safety guidelines.”
Residents are reminded to:
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for use and maintenance;
- Use portable heaters carefully. Portable heaters generate a great amount of heat;
- Maintain a minimum clearance of 36 inches from furniture, draperies or other combustible home furnishings;
- Avoid damp or wet locations for electric heaters and never touch the controls while you are wet;
- Check the electrical cords regularly for cracking or fraying;
- Do not place electrical cords for space heaters or any appliance under rugs or carpets. Place the unit close to the electrical outlet so that the cord is not a threat to trip those walking near the heater;
- Take extreme care when refueling portable kerosene heaters. These heaters should be refueled in a well-ventilated area, away from any source of heat. Wait until the heater has cooled before refueling and be sure to use the proper fuel. Use only I-K brand kerosene and always take the unit outside to refuel. The refueling area should be clear of any smoking materials or open flames;
- All portable heating units should be turned off before leaving home or going to bed;
- Extreme caution should be used when children and pets are in the home. Falling against or touching the surface of a portable heater can cause severe burns. Keep children and pets away from heaters at all times;
- Keep portable heaters out of high-traffic areas to minimize the possibility of tripping over the heater and turning it over. Be sure the unit is equipped with the “tip-over” safety feature;
- Any gas-burning heater or woodstove should be properly vented. The ventilation should be checked thoroughly at the beginning of the heating season before the appliance is used. Improperly vented appliances could produce deadly amounts of carbon monoxide;
- Gas logs must be vented properly and preferably installed by the gas company or a reputable heating contractor;
- Keep fires in the fireplace small and always use a screen to prevent sparks from flying into the room; and,
- Always use a metal container for ash removal and carry the container outside to be placed on a non-combustible surface. Never use boxes or bags!
For more information, call the Fire Prevention office of the City of Raleigh Fire Department at 919-996-6392.
Prepared by:
David Blount
Public Affairs Specialist
Public Affairs Department
For More Information Contact:
Ronald Campbell
Fire Educator/Deputy Fire Marshal
Fire Department
310 West Martin Street, Suite 200
Raleigh, NC 27602
919-996-6392
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