As temperatures begin to drop and decorations for the holidays go up, the Purchase Fire Department would like to offer some Safety Tips courtesy of the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control.
Carbon monoxide poisoning becomes an increasing threat in the winter months due to malfunctioning fuel burning heating systems. The following precautions should be followed to keep you and your family safe.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Precautions: -Install at least one Carbon Monoxide alarm near sleeping areas. It is recommended to have one detector on each floor of your home. -Have a trained professional inspect, clean and tune-up your home's central heating system and repair leaks or other problems; fireplaces and woodstoves should also be inspected each year and cleaned or repaired as needed. -Never use a gas or charcoal grill inside your home or in a closed garage. Charcoal produces more CO than any other fuel. -Portable electric generators must be used outside only. Never use them indoors, in a garage or in any confined area that can allow CO to collect. Follow usage directions closely.
Chimneys are also a common place of fire or carbon monoxide build up. An annual chimney inspection by a professional chimney sweep may help reduce the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. Also, burning only well seasoned hardwoods is recommended.
When decorating and entertaining for the holidays, in the home or at work, please refer to the following tips.
General Safety Tips: -Check all of your smoke alarms. -Ensure that your family and friends that are staying for the holidays know your home fire escape plan. -Whenever possible, use flame-retardant or flame-resistant decorating materials. Never use natural vegetation indoors that is not set in water or soil. -Watch for overloading of electrical circuits. Use listed power distribution blocks or strips having automatic circuit protection when overloaded or overheated. -Disconnect lights at bedtime or when unattended.
Please visit our Fire Prevention page for more fire and holiday safety tips. With the increase in holiday celebrations and gatherings, we would like to take this opportunity to remind you to, as always, drive with caution. The Purchase Fire Department wishes you and yours a Safe and Happy Holiday Season!
