Causes of Winter Fires in Kingston

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Common Causes of Home Fires in Kingston

Winter is the most common time of year for accidental fires. Space heaters, fireplaces, and candles are examples of hazards that create fire risk in times of cold weather. Here are a few things you can do to stay safe while keeping warm:

1. Candle Fires: Keep candles away from flammable objects. Every year careless candle placement is a leading cause of fires in the United States.
   
   
2. Space Heaters: Similar to candles, space heater fires are also common in the winter months. Most are due to clothing, curtains, or other flammable objects placed far too close to the heater. Be sure to keep flammable objects at least three feet away from space heaters.
   
   
3. Fireplaces: Always put out the fire in your fireplace before you leave your home or go to sleep at night, and always keep a watchful eye while the gas or logs are burning.
   
   
4. Overworked Electrical Outlets: Heating appliances require a great deal of electricity. Only plug one heating appliance into an electrical outlet at a time.
   
   
5. Non-working Smoke Detectors: Be sure your smoke detectors are fully functioning and have fresh batteries for the winter months. Smoke detectors should be replaced every seven to ten years to maintain full functionality.

You can keep warm, and also practice fire safety to keep your home and business safe and fire free this season!