During the winter months, days are shorter and outside temperatures are lower, increasing the need for the use of home heating equipment. However, heating equipment also is the leading cause of home fires during the months of December, January and February.
This season, as temperatures begin to drop, be prepared. Use the following tips to reduce accidents while keeping your home warm from the winter chill:
Follow manufacturer's instructions with all appliances. Have home-heating appliances installed, serviced and repaired by qualified professionals.
Keep chimney flues and vents for appliances clean and in good condition.
Keep flammable materials at least three feet from heating equipment including your furnace or portable heater.
Portable space heaters should be turned off every time you leave the room and before you go to bed.
Never use the kitchen range as a space heater. This can damage the range and produce carbon monoxide.
Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home. Test smoke alarms monthly.
The flame on your natural gas appliances should be blue. If not, have a qualified service representative check the range.
If you smell an odor similar to rotten eggs, you may have a gas leak. Leave your home or office immediately and call CPS Energy at 353-HELP (4357). Do not use a telephone or flashlight, do not switch lights on or off, and do not light a match when you smell natural gas in your home.
Install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms in a central location outside sleeping areas.
Teach small children to stay away from gas appliances.
Keep a (A, B, C rated) dry chemical fire extinguisher in the kitchen.
