Nov. 28, 2023
JCFD encourages families to practice safe home heating procedures
With temperatures forecasted to fall into the teens this evening, many residents will crank up the heat. Half of home heating fires are reported during the months of December, January and February. The National Fire Protection Association reports that heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths. The Johnson City Fire Department wants to ensure homes are warm and safe during the frigid winter months.
“By following a few simple safety tips, you can prevent most home heating fires from happening,” said Chief David Bell. “Smart home heating procedures can save lives.”
Safety tips
- Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.
- Turn portable heaters off when leaving a room or going to bed.
- Get a qualified professional to inspect heating equipment and clean chimneys every year.
- Always use the fuel specified by the manufacturer for fuel-burning space heaters.
- Never use the oven to heat your home.
- Make sure fireplaces have a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room.
- Install and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Chief Bell advises the community to be prepared in case a fire breaks out at their home, “Make sure you have a home fire escape plan and practice it. Once you are outside, never go back into a burning home.”
The JCFD is dedicated to helping ensure your safety. If you cannot afford smoke alarms for your home or need help installing them, contact us at 423-975-2840 or https://jcfd.wufoo.com/forms/smoke-detector-request-form/.
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