Winter Fire Safety

As temperatures drop below freezing, the Ocean City Fire Department reminds the citizens and visitors of Ocean City to consider fire safety as they begin to utilize supplemental heat sources in their homes.  According to the United States Fire Administration, winter residential building fires result in an estimated average of 945 deaths, over 3,820 injuries, and $1,708,000,000 in property loss each year.  Usually, fires caused by heating sources occur because the devices weren't cleaned regularly, were placed or installed too close to combustible materials, had design or operational flaws, or were fueled improperly. Here are a few tips, in order to help prevent a heating-related fire in your home:

When purchasing supplemental heating devices, make sure they carry an independent testing laboratory label, such as U.L.  Follow the manufacturer’s directions for installation, use, and maintenance of all new heating equipment.  Keep combustible items at least three feet from all heating devices.  Inspect electric heaters for damage such as frayed or worn electrical cords.  Chimneys and flues of woodstoves, fireplaces, and fireplace inserts should be cleaned and inspected yearly by a professional.  Fireplaces should always be screened during use to stop embers and sparks from igniting floor coverings.  Lastly, make sure everyone in your home understands the dangers of drying clothes and other combustibles over heating devices.

Although good maintenance of equipment and safe, diligent use of heating equipment can help lessen the risk of a home fire, it cannot entirely prevent it.  Working smoke alarms are vital in notification of a fire, allowing you and your family adequate time to escape.  Install at least one smoke alarm on every floor (including the basement), and outside each sleeping area.  It’s a good idea, especially if you sleep with your doors closed, to install a smoke alarm inside your bedroom.  Wall-mounted alarms should be positioned 4-12 inches from the ceiling, while ceiling-mounted alarms should be positioned 4 inches or more away from the nearest wall.  Alarms should be tested every month, and batteries replaced twice a year.

In addition, carbon monoxide (CO) detectors should be installed in a central location outside of all sleeping areas if your home contains any fuel burning (oil or gas) equipment.  Test CO alarms monthly and replace the batteries according to the manufacturer’s recommendations (typically twice a year).  Remember, CO detectors are not a substitute for smoke detectors.

You can access the National Fire Protection Association webpage at www.nfpa.org or contact the Ocean City Fire Department (Office of the Fire Marshal) for more tips on safely heating your home.