According to a recent report published by the U.S. Fire Administration, open heating elements account for 27% of all fires during the winter months; that’s nearly 1,228 fires per day!  In addition, fires started by Christmas trees or other holiday decorations cause, on average, over $27,000 worth of damage.  These same fires also cause nearly three times as many injuries as the average fire, accounting for almost 160 injuries from December 1 – January 7.  With all of this in mind, let’s look at some steps you can take to ensure your family’s, and your own, safety this holiday season.

With the cold temperatures, the winter months see an above average number of fires caused by objects used to heat your home; things like space heaters, fire places and furnaces.  No matter which of these you use in your home, simple steps can help ensure their safe use.  First and foremost, a tested smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector can reduce your chances of becoming injured in a fire by over 50%.  Other things, like annual inspections of fireplaces and furnaces can identify small issues before they become larger, more dangerous problems.

The winter season also finds many of us decorating our homes to celebrate one of the many holidays that occur during this time.  Extension cords and surge protectors are numerous in homes and, when used improperly, can present a significant fire hazard.  It is important to make sure that circuits are not being overloaded; even though you may be able to plug 20 items into two outlets using a variety of extension cords and surge protectors, those two outlets are giving out the same amount of power.  This overdraw can lead to easily preventable fires.  Also, it is important to ensure that the grade of extension cable is as-good-as, or better than that of what is being plugged into it.  For example, it is not recommended to plug a refrigerator into a small, skinny, extension cord. 

In closing, two suggestions remain that can help you and your family stay safe year round.  First, ensure each floor of your home has a working fire alarm and carbon monoxide alarm, and that it is tested monthly.  Finally, create a home escape plan with your family and practice it monthly.  Keep the plan posted in an area that is easily viewable and make changes as needed. 

As always, should you have any questions or would like additional fire prevention resources, contact the HVFD via phone at (412) 276-5955.  You can also email us at info -at – heidelbergfire.com.  Remember, in an emergency, dial 9-1-1.

John Mahalchak is a 3 year member of the HVFD and can be reached at jmahalchak -at- heidelbergfire.com.