Is Your Home Ready for Winter?

10/28/2024 (Permalink)

Keep your home safe and cozy all winter long: 

The colder winter months are upon us and that means relying more on our heating systems to keep our homes cozy and warm. This increased use of heating equipment also increases the risk of accidental fires. Taking extra steps now can help prevent these fires and help keep your home and family safe all season long: 

Inspect Heating Systems 

• Furnaces: Call a professional to inspect and clean your furnace to ensure it is in shape and all potentially flammable debris is removed and cleaned.  

• Fireplaces: Creosote buildup is the leading cause of chimney fires. Be sure to have your chimney cleaned and inspected so you can safely use your fireplace all winter long.  

• Space Heaters: Never leave space heaters unattended and keep them at least 3 feet away from flammable materials. Be sure that the heater you are using has been safety tested and approved. 

Check Your Water Heater 

• Monitoring the health of your water heater is essential. As water heaters age, the heating element and thermostat can wear out, increasing the risk of potential flash fires. 

Test Smoke and Carbon monoxide Detectors 

Clean Dryer Ducts 

Check Fire Extinguishers 

• Ensure that fire extinguishers are up to date and in proper working condition. 

Only Burn Dry Firewood 

• Do not use painted or treated wood in your fireplace as this can release dangerous chemicals and fumes into your home. Wet firewood will create steam, smoke, and sparks. Be sure your wood is completely dry before adding it to your fireplace. 

Holiday Decorations 

• As the holiday season commences, be sure your decorations spark cheer, not flames. Keep trees a safe distance from fireplaces and heaters and be sure to unplug them when not in use. Do not leave candles unattended and keep them a safe distance from flammable materials. 

SERVPRO of Monroe/West Monroe Fire Restoration Services 

While we hope you never need to call us if your home or business suffers from fire or smoke damage, our team is here for you with 24/7 emergency services. As a leading fire damage restoration company, we specialize in removing water after firefighting efforts. Our trained team will assess the damage caused by the fire and handle the fire cleanup and fire damage restoration. Our professionals will also deep-clean your property including soot removal from walls, carpets, and upholstery. They will also perform the smoke damage cleanup and the removal of the smoke odors.