The following safety tips are courtesy of the Santa Rita Fire District. Be sure to check their website at srfdaz.gov for additional safety tips.
Home heating fires are most common in December, January, and February. Understanding the fire triangle—comprising oxygen, fuel, and heat—helps in fire prevention. A fire cannot occur unless all three components are present.
Key Safety Tips from the National Fire Protection Association:
• Keep Safe Distances: Maintain at least three feet of clearance around furnaces, fireplaces, wood stoves, and space heaters.
• Childproof Fire Hazards: Store matches and lighters in a locked cabinet, away from children.
• Proper Heating Practices: Never use an oven to heat your home, and turn off portable heaters when unattended.
• Chimney Maintenance: Clean and inspect chimneys annually to prevent creosote buildup and chimney fires.
• Fireplace Safety: Use a sturdy screen to block sparks, cool ashes before disposal, and store them in a metal container away from your home.
• Wood Stove Installation: Follow manufacturer instructions, and ensure proper venting to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
Smoke and CO Alarms:
• Install and maintain smoke and CO alarms, testing smoke alarms monthly.
• If you smell gas, leave your home immediately and contact authorities.
Electric Space Heater Guidelines:
• Use heaters with thermostats, overheat protection, and auto shut-off features.
• Place them on flat surfaces and plug directly into electrical outlets (not extension cords).
By following these precautions and disrupting any leg of the fire triangle, most heating fires can be prevented. Stay safe and warm this winter!