Heating, holiday decorations, winter storms and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during the winter months. The North Ridgeville Fire Department would like to pass along to you some winter fire prevention tips from the National Fire Protection Agency and the U.S. Fire Administration.
• Half of all home heating fires occur in December, January and February.
• 1 in every 7 home fires and 1 in every 5 home fire deaths involves heating equipment.
• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet from heat sources like fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators or space heaters, and candles.
• Keep portable generators outside, away from windows, and as far away from your home as possible.
• Install and test carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month.
• Plug only 1 heat-producing appliance (like a space heater) into an electrical outlet at a time.
• Have a qualified professional clean and inspect your chimney and vents every year.
• Store cooled ashes in a tightly covered metal container, and keep it outside at least 10 feet from your home and any nearby buildings.