Fall Fire Prevention Tips

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

With the cooler temperatures of fall just around the corner, it is a good idea to revisit fire prevention and safety tips that are specific to this time of year. As you focus more and more on staying warm, you’ll also want to focus on staying safe while enjoying this season. 

• Checkups. Your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors will need a change of batteries so they can stay on duty. Take a look at your fire extinguishers to ensure they are fully charged and in good working order. 

• HVAC. Call your local certified HVAC technician and have them come clean, inspect and service your central heating system to avoid potential issues. 

• Space heaters. Practice safety when using space heaters by:
• Making sure any unit is surrounded by at least three feet of empty space
• Never using these units to dry clothing or other objects
• Keep any space heater away from furniture or drapery
• Always turn these units off when you go to bed or leave the house

• Fireplaces. Practice fireplace safety using these tips:
• Your chimney should be inspected yearly
• Employ a certified chimney sweep to clean your chimney in early fall, every year
• Repair all cracks in your fireplace
• Use screens to keep sparks and debris inside your fireplace
• NEVER use gasoline to start a fire in your fireplace
• NEVER leave your fire unattended
• Store any combustible materials at least three feet away from the fireplace

• Holiday decorations. Enjoy the holidays safely by taking these precautions:
• Use flashlights instead of burning candles in your Jack-O-Lanterns
• Halloween costumes should be constructed with fire-retardant materials, as should all holiday decorations. 
• Make sure that all extension cords and holiday lights have been tested by an approved organization - pay attention to labeling. 

• Teach your family fire safety:
•  Make sure even young children know how to call 911.
• Establish a fire escape plan for your family, and practice it until everyone is sure they know what to do, and where to meet. 
• “Stop, drop, and roll” needs to be taught to everyone and practiced. 

• Outdoor fire safety for fall:
• Clear your rain gutters and roof of debris buildup
• Find the outdoor burning regulations for your area, and never illegally burn leaves or other outdoor debris

Here at SERVPRO of Northwest/South Grand Rapids, we care about the safety of your family. Call us for help with fire or water damage, or when you are experiencing issues with mold or mildew. We’re always here to help.