Winter is here, and while it's the season for cozy nights in, it also comes with its fair share of hazards, especially when it comes to fires. The National Fire Protection Association reports that from 2016 to 2020, heating equipment caused 44,210 yearly fires, 13% of home fires, leading to 480 civilian deaths annually. Veuer’s Maria Mercedes Galuppo has the story.
Category
🗞
NewsTranscript
00:00Winter is here, and while it's the season for cozy nights in, it also comes with its fair share of hazards, especially when it comes to fires.
00:09The National Fire Protection Association reports that from 2016 to 2020, heating equipment caused 44,210 yearly fires, 13% of home fires, leading to 480 civilian deaths annually.
00:24But fear not, fire safety and electrical experts have shared their top mistakes to avoid this winter.
00:31Keep your space heater at least 3 to 5 feet away from anything that could catch fire, advises the HuffPost.
00:38Ensure your smoke alarms are in working order. Most home fires occur overnight when people are sleeping, emphasizing the importance of functional alarms.
00:47Never leave heat sources unattended. Whether it's candles or space heaters, a moment's distraction can lead to disaster.
00:55Remember to schedule maintenance for your heating system. Regular checks can prevent potential issues and ensure safe operation.
01:03Lastly, be mindful of your electrical outlets. Don't overload them, and avoid using power strips or extension cords with portable heaters to reduce fire risk.