When the weather turns cold and you head indoors, be aware of seasonal dangers. Check out these tips to keep you and your family safe!

Candles

• Blow candles out before you leave a room
• Candles in bathrooms or bedrooms is discouraged as they are more likely to be left unattended
• Candles should be placed in a secure holder and away from combustibles
• Wet matches before throwing them away
• Never carry a candle or use one in place of a flashlight

Space Heaters

• Maintain a three foot clearance around space heaters in every direction
• When purchasing, select a unit that offers a tip over protection feature
• Plug directly into a wall outlet            

Fireplaces        

• Have fireplaces inspected by a professional annually and have them cleaned as needed
• Securely install spark arrestors and fire screens
• Keep fireplace tools handy 
• Dispose of ashes in a metal container and never store them indoors
• Be cautious with decorations around fireplaces. Maintain vertical and horizontal clearance to combustibles from the firebox opening.

Cooking          

• Never use the oven or stove to heat your home
• Never grill indoors
• Be cautious around open flames and burners, especially if you are wearing loose clothing or if you have long hair

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

• With houses being closed up in the winter, the opportunity for CO to accumulate increases. Carbon monoxide alarms should be placed near sleeping areas to wake residents.

Electrical

• Install timers to cycle lights off and don’t overload circuits (no more than three cords per outlet is the recommendation)
• Avoid running cords under rugs to prevent fraying
• Inspect cords before use
• DO NOT use extension cords or appliances if the cords are worn or frayed

  Electrical Safety (5.5MB, .wmv video file)

Have an emergency kit

Store this in your basement or another area where it is readily available:

• Include food, water, and other supplies for at least three days;
• Make sure the food can be prepared without cooking in case of power failure;

Purchase a NOAA Weather Radio so you can monitor local media outlets for storm information, such as shelter locations, power outage details, and other important information.

Tips for outside your home, including driving>>

Tips for keeping your pets healthy and safe>>

Additional Resources

• The Heart of America Metro Fire Chiefs Council offers additional safety tips for the holidays (.pdf file) regarding trees, lights, decorations and fireplaces
• Smoke alarms
• FEMA's Winter Weather Awareness Information
• National Weather Service Winter Weather Awareness