Winter Weather Means An Increase In House Fires

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

Space heaters are one of the leading causes of indoor fires during the winter.

Every holiday season we unfortunately see an increase in the amount of fires in Maryville, TN. With the holiday season comes cold weather and often the need to add some extra heat. But when you add seasonal décor and extra heat sources, there are added risks involved.

According to FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Association and NFPA, the National Fire Prevention Association, half of all home fires caused by heating sources occur in the months of December, January, and February. Additionally, 1 in 6 home fires are a result of heating equipment, and 1 in 5 home fire deaths.

Extra precaution should be used to prevent fire damage and recognize the added risks.

• Place all items including Christmas trees, candles, and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, heat vents, and candles
• Never use portable generators inside a residence or business. The output of carbon monoxide and fumes can be a silent killer.
• Install a carbon monoxide detector and inspect it at least once a month.
• Have a professional inspect your chimney annually to make sure it's operating correctly and cleaned as needed.
• Never overload outlets with electrical heating sources. Make sure cord are not frayed or worn. No more than one source should be plugged in to one outlet.
• Keep fire extinguishers serviced and up to date. Always keep one in the kitchen, close to the stove.
• Always discard used and cooled ashes properly, a minimum of 10 feet away from houses or any building, using a metal container.

To learn more about SERVPRO of Blount County and our fire damage services click here. For more tips on preventing winter fires and education visit www.usfa.fema.gov/winter and www.nfpa.org/winter.