Winter is infamous for house fires. It is almost as if every time you turn on the news there is a report of someone losing their home and everything in it. Sadly, the vast majority of the 3,000 deaths and $7B in damages last year were preventable (Source: NFPA). Make sure your family is knowledgeable of common threats and take appropriate precautions to keep you and your belongings safe this winter.
Kitchen Hazards & Cooking – Nearly half of all fires in the U.S. are attributed to cooking. Leaving the kitchen unattended with the oven or cooktop running is the top contributor.
- Never leave the kitchen unattended while cooking
- Do NOT throw water on a grease fire
- Mount a fire extinguisher in a place that’s easily accessible from the kitchen
Appliances – Over 9 out of 10 appliance fires involve the dryer. Electric and gas dryers are equally guilty. Space heaters, furnaces, washing machines, and other appliances can also start fires when not maintained properly.
- Clean lint screens before every use, clean the dryer vent at least twice per year
- Have your furnaces and other major appliances inspected regularly. Owens’ Preventive Maintenance Program is a worry-free solution.
Open Flames – Candles, fireplaces, and smoking indoors all gain popularity in the winter. More fires are caused as a result.
- Consider smoking outdoors. Do NOT smoke while in bed – especially if you are tired.
- Keep flammable objects clear of any open flames. Do not let flames burn unattended.