As the temperatures drop and the heating equipment roars back to life, it’s the perfect season to snuggle under a warm blanket by the fire, hot cocoa in hand. But while fireplaces and furnaces create comfort, they can also pose serious safety risks if not properly maintained. In fact, heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire fatalities, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
To help you enjoy a warm and safe winter, here are essential tips for caring for your heating equipment:
General Heating Safety Tips
- Keep flammable items at least three feet away from any heating equipment.
- Establish a safety zone: a three-foot area that’s kid- and pet-free.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly, and replace batteries as needed.
- Have fire extinguishers readily available and ensure they’re in good working condition.
- Schedule annual professional inspections for your heating equipment.
- Turn portable heaters off whenever you leave a room or the house.
- Never use your oven as a heating source.
Furnace Safety Tips
- Inspect and replace filters every 30 days, and never wait longer than 90 days to clean or replace them.
- Clean the area around your furnace to prevent dust and debris buildup.
- Check the flame color: a blue flame indicates proper functioning. Yellow or orange flames may signal a problem—schedule an inspection immediately.
- Look for soot buildup around your furnace, as it could mean poor ventilation or malfunction.
- Know how to shut off the gas at the main valve near your gas meter in case of an emergency.
Fireplace and Wood Stove Safety Tips
- Schedule annual inspections and cleanings for your fireplace and chimney.
- Open the damper before using your fireplace to ensure proper ventilation.
- Use a metal or glass screen to prevent sparks and ashes from escaping into the room.
- Keep fireplace controls out of children’s reach, whether it’s a remote or wall switch.
- Clean out ashes after each use, allowing them to cool completely before transferring them to a metal container with a lid. Store the container outdoors.
- Extinguish fires completely before going to bed or leaving the house.
- Avoid burning paper or other non-wood materials in your fireplace or wood stove.
- Keep wood stove doors closed unless you’re adding wood or tending the fire.
When the Unexpected Happens
If your home or business suffers from fire or smoke damage caused by heating equipment, we’re here to help. Our team specializes in restoring your property and getting you back on your feet quickly.
Stay safe and warm this winter!
