Eliminate heating hazards this winter in Cass & St. Joseph Counties

1/17/2017 (Permalink)

50% of all residential heating-related fires are reported during the months of December, January, and February.

No matter where you live, winter brings changes in the weather. In an effort to keep our homes and workplaces cozy, many people use alternative heat sources like portable space heaters, fireplaces, and wood burning stoves. According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment is responsible for an estimated $893 million in property damage annually. Heating is the second leading cause of residential fire deaths, making it important to review ways to help reduce the risk of heating-related fire.

• Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Always use the right kind of fuel specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Test smoke alarms monthly.

If your property does suffer fire damage, contact SERVPRO of Cass & St. Joseph Counties at (269-273-8777) to help make it "Like it never even happened."