Tips to Prevent House Fires Caused By Home Heating and Appliances

Tips to Prevent House Fires Caused By Home Heating and Appliances

The importance of fire safety when using home heating systems or appliances cannot be underestimated. According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are about 350,000 to 400,000 house fires in the US every year, with home heating appliances being one of the leading causes. 

This has resulted in an estimated $7.3 billion in property damage, an average of 11,070 fire injuries, and 2620 deaths.

The cold months of December, January, and February report the highest home heating fires. Understanding and practicing proper safety precautions is important to prevent home heating fires and keep yourself and your family safe.

Importance of Fire Safety when Using Home Heating System

Fire safety is vital at home, especially when using home heating systems or appliances during colder months. Fire's consequences are disastrous, so it's critical to prioritize fire safety awareness.

Besides reducing the risk of injury or fatality to you and your loved ones, fire safety can minimize damage to your home and assets. Here are a few tips that can help keep your heating units safe from fire.

Fireplace Safety Tips

Many households use fireplaces during winter to warm their living spaces, while others use them during the holidays. Whichever the reason you are using fireplaces, these safety tips will help you avoid home fires and fatalities.

  • Have your chimney inspected and cleaned even when you don't use it frequently.
  • Ensure your fireplace is barricaded and the gate is always closed if you have young children.
  • Never leave the fire burning unattended or sleep while it's burning.
  • Use the fireplace's diffusion screen to prevent the burning wood from falling out of the fireplace.
  • Ensure you burn only dry wood.

Space Heater Safety Tips

Ensure you observe all the safety precautions when using space heaters. According to the US Fire Administration, about 79 percent of home heating fire fatalities are space heater related. Follow these safety tips when using a space heater.

  • Limit access to space heaters, especially for children and pets.
  • Put off your space heater when going to sleep.
  • Never leave a space heater unattended.
  • Regularly inspect your unit for any malfunction and replace the unit if need be.
  • Ensure you use a space heater with an emergency cut-off so that it automatically shuts off when tipped over.
  • Make sure the space heater is on a flat level and a non-flammable surface like ceramic tile.

General Home Heating Systems Safety Tips

  • Keep all flammable objects at least three feet away from your heating unit, like a wood-burning furnace, stove, fireplace, or space heater.
  • Ensure your home heating appliance is inspected and cleaned by a qualified professional.
  • Refrain from using an oven to heat your home.
  • Turn off and unplug portable heaters when not around or going to sleep.
  • Have a qualified contractor install heating equipment as per the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Make sure to plug a space heater directly into an outlet instead of a multiplug.
  • Don't overload power outlets or extension cords.
  • Use recommended fuel for fuel-burning space heaters.
  • Never light an appliance if you smell gas in your living space or from your gas heater.
  • Have experts install carbon monoxide alarms and test them monthly to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Home heating equipment is a lifesaver, especially during cold months, but it is vital to know how to use them properly. Make sure your heating appliances are installed by a qualified professional and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Our Professional Movers Care About You and Your Belongings

DFW Fireman Movers comprises a team of experienced firefighters who prioritizes safety. We extend this to our clients when moving their valuables to their new homes. We carefully transport their items with the utmost care. Contact us today to learn more about our moving services or to request a no-obligation quote.

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