First and most importantly, install smoke alarms to warn of a fire. You can contact your local fire department to get one for free and they'll install it. You should also have carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in your home to warn about a faulty furnace, fireplace or other venting problems.
Also, be sure your family has an escape plan in place and practice it in the event of a fire.
Space/Electric Heaters
- Look for the UL Mark on your electric heater. This means representative samples of the appliance have met UL's stringent safety standards.
- Space heaters should never be used as a primary source of heat. When using a space heater as a supplementary device make sure it is at least 3 feet away from any household combustibles such as curtains, decorations, clothing items, newspapers and flammable liquids.
- Make sure you are using the proper size extension cords for space heaters. If the cord cannot handle the current it will overheat and melt.
- Inspect the heater's cord periodically to look for frayed wire or damaged insulation. Do not use a space heater with a damaged cord.
- Heaters should be placed on a flat, level surface. Do not place heaters on furniture since they may fall and become damaged or break parts in the heater.
- Never leave a space heater unattended, particularly when children and pets are present.
- Unless the heater is designed for use outdoors or in bathrooms, do not use it in damp, wet areas.
- Always shut off and unplug space heaters when leaving the room and before going to bed.
Fireplace safety
- Use small bundles of wood and ensure logs are dry and split to size, as they will catch fire quicker and reduce the risk of sparks and flyaways.
- Stay away from using junk wood, like old pieces of furniture, and be aware that anything with varnish or a finish will release toxins and create chimney buildup.
- Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks and embers from flying into the room.
- Never leave a fireplace fire unattended, particularly when children and pets are present.
- Use the proper fire tools to stoke and clean your fireplace periodically. Sweep up the soot left over to avoid an uncontrollable fire next time around.
- Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container and kept at a safe distance from your home.
- Remember to have your chimney cleaned at least once a year.
Wood Burning Ovens
- Wood-burning ovens are often used to heat a home. Read the instruction manual carefully to avoid improper installation.
- Check for cracks and inspect legs, hinges and door seals for smooth joints and seams.
- Use only seasoned wood for fuel, not green wood, artificial logs, or trash.
- Keep air inlets on wood stoves open, and never restrict air supply. Otherwise, you may cause creosote buildup that could lead to a chimney fire.
Generators
- Use generators outside of the home in well-ventilated areas
- Keep them at least five feet from all doors, windows, and vent openings
- Never use a generator in a garage, even with the door open
- Make sure the exhaust is directed away from your home and install carbon monoxide alarms
- Never refuel a generator when it is hot
- Store fuel outside
- If you are using a generator to power your entire home, make sure an electrician installs it properly