Hello, neighbors! As the chilly winter weather arrives, it’s important to make sure our homes stay warm and safe. I’m here as the Pittsburg Fire Chief to share some easy tips that will help prevent fires during this cozy season.
1. Taking Care of Fireplaces and Chimneys: When you want to enjoy a crackling fire, remember these steps:
Get Your Chimney Checked: Before lighting up your fireplace or wood stove, have a chimney expert look at it to clean out any build-up from the previous season. Also, if the temperatures have not been very cold and you’ve been using your wood stove for heat, your chimney may need cleaned again.
Cover the Flames: Use a strong metal screen in front of the fireplace to keep sparks from flying out.
Keep Things Clear: Keep anything that can catch fire—like curtains or furniture—far away from the fireplace.
Cold Ashes, Safe Storage: Wait for ashes to cool, then put them in a metal container with a lid. Keep this container outside away from your residence.
Wood Storage: If possible, keep your wood pile a minimum of 10 feet from any structure.
2. Staying Safe with Heaters: Electric and kerosene heaters can keep us warm, but we need to be careful:
Fresh Air Matters: If you’re using a kerosene heater, make sure there’s good airflow so carbon monoxide doesn’t build up. Don’t use things made for outside use indoors.
Give Space: Keep heaters at least three feet away from flammable items, like blankets or curtains.
Don’t Leave Them Alone: Always stay close when heaters are on, especially when you’re going to sleep or leaving home.
Right Plug: If you’re using an electric heater, plug it into the wall directly. Don’t use long cords that can cause problems. Also, remember to only plug one heating device in to any outlet.
3. More Easy Tips:
Check Your Detectors: Make sure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors work by checking them every month. Change their batteries twice a year, remember this when time changes. Some newer detectors do not require battery changes. Most smoke detectors need replaced every 10 years.
Careful with Candles: If you light candles, use strong holders and keep them away from flammable items. Extinguish them out when you’re not in the room.
Lighting Love: If you’re putting up holiday lights, check if any wires are broken or damaged. Don’t use too many in one plug and turn them off before bed or leaving.
Heater Help: If you’re using small heaters, make sure they switch off if they tip over. Put them where people and pets can’t reach them.
Cooking Care: While cooking holiday meals, stay in the kitchen and set a timer. Keep anything flammable away from the stove. Remember that your stove is not a heater.
Winter Vehicle Safety: Keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle with things like blankets, warm clothes, cell phone charger, snacks and a flashlight in case you get stuck or have vehicle issues.
Remember, by following these simple steps, you can enjoy a warm and wonderful winter with less worries. If you need help or have questions, your local fire department is always here for you. In addition, we are always on the lookout for dedicated volunteer firefighters and first responders to join our team and help keep our communities safe. Let’s make this a season filled with joy and safety for everyone.
Stay warm and safe,
Bill Copeland,
Pittsburg Fire Department Fire Chief
“Neighbors Helping Neighbors”
