Stay cozy, warm, and safe!

There is something about the winter months and curling up with a good book by the fireplace. The CSFD wants you to to stay warm and safe this winter season. But did you know that heating equipment is the leading cause of home fire deaths? Over half of the home heating fires are reported in the months of December, January and February in the City of Colorado Springs. Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are also key to your safety. With a few simple tips and precautions you can prevent most heating fires from happening.

 

If you install wood burning stoves following manufacturer’s instructions or have a professional do the installation. All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Install and maintain CO alarms to avoid the risk of CO poisoning. If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not light the appliance. Leave the home immediately and call 911 for assistance.

Action Steps You Can Take

Local Fact:
Half of home heating fires in Colorado Springs are reported in January, February, and December.

Space Heaters

  • Keep the heater at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn, including people.
  • Place the heater on a solid, flat surface.
  • Make sure your heater has an auto shut-off to turn the heater off if it tips over.
  • Keep space heaters out of the way of foot traffic. Never block an exit.
  • Keep children away from the space heater.
  • Plug the heater directly into the wall outlet. Never use an extension cord.
  • Space heaters should be turned off and unplugged when you leave the room or go to bed.

Fireplaces

  • Make sure the protective linings and smoke ducts are clean and in good condition. 
  • Check to see that the chimney is clear and in good repair.
  • Keep the top of chimneys clear of tree limbs or debris.
  • Never use gasoline, charcoal lighter or other fuel to light or re-light a fire because the vapors can explode.
  • Do not burn trash or gift wrap in the fireplace because certain plastics, foam rubber and other coated materials can cause deadly fumes. Flying sparks could also allow the roof to catch fire.

You can download and print this Home Heating Safety flyer for more information.