Wood Stoves
Wood and coal burning have also been responsible for many home heating accidents. Wood stoves, fireplaces, and their chimney assemblies are estimated to account for more than 100,000 residential fires every year, resulting in almost 200 deaths. The dangers associated with this type of heating system are fire and burns resulting from improper installation and creosote buildup.
When installing a wood stove, make certain that it is placed on the surface and at the distance from the wall recommended by the manufacturer.
Most wood heating fires have occurred in the chimney. Such fires can result from poorly constructed or damaged masonry chimneys, poor installation of factory built chimneys or the ignition of creosote, a tar-like residue which builds up in chimneys over time and is caused by low temperature fires.
To reduce the risk of fire, existing masonry chimneys should be inspected and repaired if necessary. Also, special care must be taken when installing a factory-built chimney to ensure it is kept the required distance from nearby combustible materials. People should have their chimneys checked by a qualified chimney sweep before, as well as during, the heating season to prevent a dangerous creosote buildup and resultant chimney fire.
At the same time, both the fireplace and chimney should be checked for structural integrity. And as a final precaution, never burn trash, charcoal or plastics in your wood burning appliance. These items can overheat your stove or fireplace causing a fire. They can also cause a buildup of pollutants when burned in a fireplace. Always make sure the area is properly ventilated.
911 Address - Public Awareness
Visible house numbers are helpful in Emergencies For responders to find your house in a timely manner, help by installing your address numbers.
If you need a reflective address
sign for your mailbox,
we can assist you with this.
Smoke Alarms save lives !
Every Bedroom Needs a Working Smoke Alarm...
...and every level in your home needs a working smoke alarm
Electric Space Heaters
Portable electric heaters, while seemingly harmless, are responsible for 2600 fires and 130 deaths annually. These heaters are not substitutes for central heating. Nor are they designed for extended use.
· All types must be kept at least 36 inches from anything that can burn, including furniture, bedding, clothing, pets and people.
· Space heaters must not be left operating when you are not in the room, or when you go to sleep.
· Children should be supervised at all times when space heaters are in use.
· Do not put drying clothing or combustibles over heaters.· Check for fraying or splitting wires, or overheating. Have problems repaired by a professional before operating the space heater.
- Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.
- Make sure you know how old all the smoke alarms are in your home.
- To find out how old a smoke alarm is, look at the date of manufacture on the back of the alarm; the alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date.