How To Prevent Heating System Fires
Topics: fire prevention, home fires, heating safety, space heaters, fireplace safety, safety plan
Home heating equipment that provides warmth and comfort on a cool day also brings deadly risks if used incorrectly.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, fires associated with home heating equipment result in about 45,000 fires and over 200 fatalities across America every year.
Here are a few tips to keep your house cozy and safe.
Start With The Basics
* Have your heating systems inspected by a professional before the start of each heating season.
* Install smoke detectors on every level of your home, including the basement, outside sleeping areas and in rooms with space heaters. Put carbon monoxide detectors outside sleeping areas, and in rooms with a fireplace or stove, unvented gas or liquid heaters, or a furnace.
* Keep flammable items at least three feet from a heater, fireplace, chimney, stove and chimney pipe. This includes papers, wallpaper, curtains, clothing, and bedding.
* Keep a fire extinguisher handy, and know how to use it.
Be Cautious With Portable Heaters
* Buy a heater that has been approved by a nationally recognized independent testing lab, and has automatic shut-off safety features.
* Always turn heaters off when leaving a room or going to bed.
* Never use a heater in a room where children or incapacitated adults are unsupervised.
* If you have an electric heater:
-Do not curl the cord and do not bury it under carpeting. The heat from the cord could start a fire.
-If the cord overheats, stop using the heater and have it serviced.
-Don’t use an extension cord. If you must use one temporarily, be sure it is marked with a power rating at least equal to the heater.
-Periodically check for fraying or splitting wires. Do not try to repair a broken heater yourself. Take it to a qualified service center.
* Avoid using kerosene heaters. They are illegal in many areas. If you must use one: make sure you use the correct fuel; follow manufacturer’s directions exactly; never refill a kerosene heater when it is hot; and never fill it indoors.
Hot Tips For Fireplaces and Stoves
* Have the chimney inspected by a certified sweep at the start of each heating season. If you regularly use the fireplace or stove more than four times a week, or use soft or green woods, have it inspected more often.
* Never leave small children unattended near a fireplace or stove.
* Block out animals and sparks with a mesh screen spark arrester on the chimney, and keep the roof clear of leaves, pine needles, overhanging branches and other debris.
* Never use flammable liquids to light or stoke a fire.
* Do not burn paper, boxes, trash, or pine boughs. The particles can float out onto the roof.
* To reduce creosote, use hardwoods seasoned for at least a year.
* Don’t burn preservative-treated wood. The ash will contain chemicals that are a hazardous waste.
* Remove ashes only in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Put the ashes outside, away from combustible materials.
* Don’t overload a fireplace. A roaring fire can overheat your walls or roof and lead to an inferno. Also:
-Read the instructions before lighting an artificial log. These logs can burn unevenly and release abnormal levels of carbon monoxide.
-Be sure the fire is out before you go to bed or leave the house.
-To avoid flying sparks, use a sturdy screen made of metal or heat-tempered glass.
* If you purchase a stove, buy one that bears a label from a reputable testing lab, and have it installed by a certified company. Also:
-Frequently check and clean flues for creosote.
-Keep a window ajar to avoid a buildup of combustion products.
* If there is a roaring noise inside the house from the chimney area, or sparks and/or flames shooting from the chimney top, call the fire department immediately. If the chimney cracks or if heat radiates through it, the house may catch fire.
John Myre is the author of the award-winning book, Live Safely in a Dangerous World, www.safetytimes.com, and the publisher of the Safety Times Reproducible Articles, www.safetytimes.com.
Previous Articles Highlighter:
A Holiday Makers Guide To Barbados (1)
The English had by this time stepped in to aid the Bajan population and rejuvenate income as it was before. By 1966 Barbados claimed its official independence with the Bajan people taking full control of the islands affairs and increasing tourism making it the main lucrative source for income on the island.
Not Getting Enough Traffic? Try Giving A Little (2)
Write articles, post them to submission sites (there are several out there), and watch your traffic soar. Article submission sites allow you to post your contact information, including your website address, in the author resource box.
Home Schooling For College Students (3)
The curriculum obviously includes religious studies and it is an integral part of the education program. There are still other types that focus more on science, arts, and many others.
How To Prevent Water Damage (4)
If these problems aren't fixed and as soon as possible, the cost of repairs can be expensive and very difficult to fix. As the water is allowed to collect in these places, it will take more time to remove and more time out of your home.
The Housing Market Is Up In Smoke (5)
There might be several on down the road that are under construction by this same builder. There are so many that it looks like this market should look like it's on fire, but I say that it's up in smoke.
Getting The Most Mileage Out Of Your Car In San Francisco (6)
As we learn to tighten our belts and revert to living within our means, we will find ourselves repairing, recycling, reusing things so that they last longer. This is not such as bad thing and can be an easy transition if we take the time to look at ways to spend less money on the same things.
Its A Potters World (7)
These were not the normal pottery that we see today, but were traditionally used for depicting religious figures and statuettes. The first known vessels were believed to have been developed in Ancient Japan of the Jomon people.
Caring For Pet Birds (8)
With the right mind set and knowledge you too can become a happy and relaxed bird owner with a happy bird to boost. Learn easy ways to care for your pet bird and never make the same mistakes again.
For The Future: New Diesels (9)
You have never had so many choices for how to change gears in your car s in this new generation Alfa, one of Hong Kong's premium vehicles. Along with distinctive Italian styling, the Alfa diesel gives excellent fuel economy and a driving experience that allows you to really connect with your machinery.
What You Need To Know If You're Insuring Your Classic Car (10)
Luckily, many if not all car insurers will allow you to make payments on your insurance policy. Needing to have the entire lump sum is not necessary, however, I would recommend it since you can save money on interest and extra financing charges that may come up.
Newer Articles Highlighter:
Mistakes That Companies Make With Computers (1)
Although these may be a bit pricier it is worth it in the long run. Don't Get Your Hardware, Wrongware! Again do not go for cheap pieces of hardware, it is all well and good stating that you have found a great piece of hardware for a really low cost.
A Guide To Taking Ionian Sailing Holidays (2)
Due to its calm and tranquil sea the island makes for a good spot for sailing for beginners and families. Skilled sailors can also enjoy the vibrant culture, relaxed warm climate, endure good use of space for using their skills and take advantage of the numerous harbours and docks which are often used as charter bases.
Various Different Categories Of Classified Ads (3)
Jobs come and go, and when they go, the employment section of the online classified ad listing services is a blessing. This section has subsections that break down employment ads into categories such as: administrative, marketing, food and beverage, technical, computers, and more.
Top 6 Benefits Of Directory Submissions (4)
4. Take advantage of niche directories. There are directories for almost every niche, so do your research and find those that cater to your area of expertise. One great advantage of niche directories is that they almost guarantee targeted traffic.
Drive The Extra Mile To Off-Site Airport Parking (5)
Shop around and find the best deal for you. It is as quick and easy as any purchase on-line and once you have confirmed your booking, correspondence on the day is kept to a minimum, with paperwork already organised, leaving you plenty of time to get to your check in desk before gates close.
Learning To Trade Forex- Part 1: Books (6)
If a book is telling it will make you money fast I would put it down and run the other way. Books in general are a powerful source because they turn spare moments into productive ones.
Apple IPhone Prices Meeting A Big Drop (7)
Margins on such a large scale makes the price cut foreseeable. The company also tends to release a promotional campaign for the iphones. So far, Apple has released only few terms and conditions related to the gadget.
Eight Powerful Questions That Will Change Your Life (8)
Dare to live a larger life. Start each day with an intention and a commitment to achieving the positive shifts you want in your life, and watch for miracles to happen!
Teddy Bears - How Important Is The Choice Of Color (9)
They'd appreciate something lively and fun. You could choose a color like purple, blue or green, although you would never see a real bear that shade. Just be sure the bear is cuddly and soft, because bright colors invite hugs!
Do You Really Need Excel VBA Training? (10)
When you do upgrade to Office Mac 2008, you are going to need Excel VBA training to understand those obsolete macros so that you can rewrite them in AppleScript. Author is a freelance copywriter.