As extreme cold approaches the Upper Texas Coast, the Galveston Fire Department is urging residents to follow fire safety guidelines when using heaters, generators and fireplaces, warning that winter is the most dangerous season for home fires.
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With an extreme cold forecast, the Galveston Fire Department warns homeowners that winter is the most dangerous season for home fires and advises families to take extra precautions.
Fire officials stated winter has the most house fires due to increased usage of space heaters, fireplaces, generators, and other heating equipment. National fire safety data provided by the agency shows that half of residential heating fires occur in December, January, and February.
One in six home fires and one in five home fire deaths include heating equipment, the department said in a public safety alert.
Residents can avert most winter fires by following safety regulations, officials said. Firefighters said keeping anything that can burn 3 feet away from heat sources, including fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators, and space heaters, is crucial.
The department advised homeowners to connect only one heat-producing item to an outlet and not overload it. Place space heaters on a level, solid surface and switch them off before leaving or sleeping.
Firefighters advised generator users during power outages to keep them outside, away from windows, doors, and vents, to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
The government recommends installing and testing carbon monoxide alarms monthly, especially in winter when fuel-burning appliances are prevalent.
A skilled specialist should clean and inspect chimneys and vents annually before heavy use. Officials also warned residents to store cooled fireplace ashes in a firmly covered metal container at least 10 feet from dwellings and nearby buildings.
Forecasters foresee a protracted period of subfreezing weather that may force many families to use supplemental heat.
Residents should check smoke alarms, evacuation plans, and heating equipment before the fire.
They also advised against heating homes with grills, camp stoves, or ovens, as these may cause fires or CO poisoning.
Simple precautions can save lives in chilly weather, according to the department.
“Be fire smart as you stay warm,” officials said.
Residents were advised to share safety recommendations with relatives and neighbors, especially older adults who use space heaters in extreme weather.
Firefighters will monitor conditions and respond to situations when temperatures decrease, but prevention is preferred.
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