Avoiding A Fire In Your Home During Chilly Weather

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

Always here to help. SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333. We make any size disaster, "Like it never even happened."

Everyone wants to keep their homes and workplaces warm during the winter.

In an effort to keep heating costs down, many residents and employees will turn to alternative heat sources, such as fireplaces and space heaters.

In Lakewood Ranch, fire damage can be prevented by reading the following tips from SERVPRO.

When used and maintained as directed, these methods can effectively warm your home or office. However, there is also an inherent danger, as heating equipment is the leading cause of home fires during the winter months.

According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), the second leading cause of residential home fires, resulting in severe fire damage, is alternate heating sources. Cooking equipment is the primary culprit. Alternative heating sources, such as space heaters, are safe when used correctly according to the manufacturer's guidelines.

SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch would like to pass along the following tips to help minimize the risk for heating fires this winter:

·    Never use the stove, oven or range to heat your home.

·    Never burn green wood, trash, or paper in your fireplace. These fuel sources cause heavy creosote build up, which could eventually start a fire in your chimney.

·    Only buy heaters certified by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as the Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

·    Purchase electronic heaters with a thermostat control mechanism that will switch off if the heater tips over.

·    Never use electric heaters to dry clothes. Place space heaters a minimum of three feet from combustible materials.

·    Plug your electronic heater directly into the wall - do not use an extension cord or a power strip.

·    Always unplug your electric heater when not in use.

Fire Damage in Lakewood Ranch can be minimized. My team and I encourage you to stay warm and safe as the cold front moves in. If you have any questions call SERVPRO of East Bradenton / Lakewood Ranch (941) 747-2333