Safety Tips & Info

 As the temperatures drop and we snuggle up indoors, the risk of fire actually goes up. Heating, cooking, candles, and holiday decorations all contribute to more fires during the winter months. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), home fires are more common in winter than at any other time of the year. So, as the snow starts to fall, it’s a good idea to brush up on fire safety to protect your home and loved ones.

December, January, and February are the peak months for heating-related fires. If you’re using a space heater to stay warm, make sure it’s placed at least three feet away from anything flammable—that includes things like furniture, blankets, or even curtains. Never leave a space heater on when you leave the room or go to bed. And it might seem tempting, but don’t store clothes or pile anything on or around the heater. Also, keep kids and pets at least three feet away. Safety first!

Candles are great for setting a cozy, festive mood, but they can be dangerous if not handled properly. Always keep candles at least a foot away from anything flammable—including decorations, curtains, or papers. Never leave a candle burning unattended, and make sure to blow out all candles before leaving the room or going to sleep. It’s also a good idea to place candles out of reach of children and pets.

Did you know cooking is the leading cause of home fires and injuries? With all the holiday meals and winter comfort foods, it’s easy to get distracted. Most kitchen fires start because of unattended stovetops or ovens. If you're simmering, baking, or roasting, don’t walk away. Stay in the kitchen, set a timer if needed, and always check on things. And remember to use your kitchen exhaust fan to help prevent carbon monoxide from building up inside your home. A little attention goes a long way in keeping things safe!

Holiday decorations are fun, but they also come with some fire hazards. Before you hang up those twinkling lights, check for broken bulbs, frayed wires, or damaged plugs. If anything looks off, it’s best to toss it and get a new set. Also, avoid overloading electrical outlets. Too many lights plugged in can cause overheating and start a fire. Finally, keep your decorations at least three feet away from heat sources like lamps, candles, and fireplaces.

Fire extinguishers are an essential safety tool, especially during the winter months. It’s important to know how to use them—and make sure they’re easily accessible. Store them in key places like the kitchen and garage where fires are more likely to start. A multi-purpose fire extinguisher, like the First Alert Rechargeable Home Fire Extinguisher, can handle most household fires and is a great choice for general protection.

With a little extra attention to safety, you can enjoy a warm, festive, and fire-free winter season!