WASHINGTON — With a cold blast of temperatures on the way — and the holidays approaching — local fire departments are recommending a few safety-related changes you can make around the house to protect yourself.
Some good news first. Your home’s pipes probably aren’t in danger of freezing until the cold persists for a few weeks, said Pete Piringer with Montgomery County Fire and Rescue.
But as the decorations go up, remember to keep them away from a heat source.
“Create a circle of safety,” Piringer said. “Three feet is usually a circumference to keep things safe from any kind of heating element.”
Make sure your fireplace is cleaned, tell your guests where the extinguisher is located and keep an eye on the oven when you’re baking those holiday cookies.
“That’s the number one cause of fires in Montgomery County: things cooking and burning,” Piringer said.
Fairfax County’s latest health and safety podcast is on winter home fire safety and holiday decorating. Find the audio here.
More fire safety tips
- Working smoke alarms should be placed throughout the house and in all sleeping areas.
- Before burning any firewood, keep at least 3 feet around the fireplace clear of objects.
- Replace space heaters that are over 10 years old.
- Have a home escape plan and practice it.
- Let your guests know your safety evacuation plan.
- Keep decorations away from any heating source.
