Safe Heating Tips for Mainers in Cold Weather

After a rash of fires this week, the Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office is offering a reminder to take precautions to stay safe while heating homes during this cold weather.

Tips include:

• Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything flammable, never leave them unattended, and avoid using extension cords.
• Ensure smoke alarms are installed on every level of your home and test them monthly.
• Know your home’s fire escape plan and make sure all household members are familiar with it.
• Avoid overloading electrical circuits.
• Have your heating system inspected and maintained regularly.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms centrally outside each sleeping area, on every level, and near fuel-burning appliances.

Advice from the Red Cross:

General Safe Heating Practices

• Ensure that you keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from any heating equipment.
• Never block vents, radiators, or heat registers.
• Keep children and pets away from heat sources.
• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home and test them monthly!
• Install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms if using fuel-burning devices.
• Create and practice a home fire escape plan.

Space Heater Safety

• Choose heaters with automatic shut-off if tipped over.
• Plug space heaters directly into the wall and never use extension cords.
• Turn heaters off before sleeping or leaving the room.
• Place on a stable, flat surface.
• Keep cords out of walkways.
• Follow manufacturer instructions for spacing and wattage.

Fireplace and Wood Stove Safety

• Have chimneys and vents inspected and cleaned yearly.
• Use a metal or heat-tempered glass screen to stop sparks.
• Dispose of ashes in a metal container that you keep outside.
• Burn only dry, seasoned wood.
• Keep flammable items away from fireplace openings.

Furnace, Boiler and Central Heating Safety

• Schedule annual professional inspections!
• Replace filters regularly to prevent overheating.
• Ensure furnace rooms have adequate ventilation.
• Keep combustible materials away from the unit.

Carbon Monoxide Prevention

• CO is produced by all gas heaters, fireplaces, wood stoves, and generators.
• Install CO alarms outside sleeping areas.
• Never run ovens, grills, or generators for heating.
• If the alarm sounds → move outdoors immediately and call 911.