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Winter Fires


Quick facts:

  • There are more home fires in winter than any other season.

  • 1 in every 7 home fires involve heating equipment.

  • 1 in 4 winter fires are from a heating source too close to a tree.

  • More than half of the home decoration fires in December are started by candles.

  • The top 3 days for candle fires are Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.


Collected* tips for wintertime fire safety: 

HOME HEATING:

  • DO plug space heaters directly into the wall.

  • DO keep all items that can burn 3 feet away from heaters.

  • DO keep chimney and vents clean. This is a good time for annual professional check.

  • DO install or check your carbon monoxide alarms.

  • DON’T use more than one space heater at a time.

  • DON’T run space heaters overnight.


HOLIDAY TREE:

  • DO keep at least 3 feet away from all heat sources. 

  • DO secure the tree to the wall, especially if you have pets.

  • DO water your tree every day so it doesn’t dry out, and DO dispose of it if it does.

  • DON’T block exits with your tree. 


POWER OUTAGES:

  • DO have flashlights (not candles) and batteries on hand.

  • DO check on your neighbors.

  • DON’T run a generator inside.


CANDLES:

  • DO keep in eyesight, always.

  • DO keep at least 1 foot away from anything that can burn.

  • DON’T use for emergency lighting.

  • DON’T have in reach of pets or children.


SNOW SHOVELING:

  • DO shovel out your local fire hydrant, if you can.

  • DON’T overdo this strenuous activity. Take frequent breaks for water (and hot cocoa).


*Sources: 

National Fire Protection Agency

U.S. Fire Administration

Federal Emergency Management Agency

First Nations Emergency Services Society



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