Staying warm during the winter can be pretty easy for experienced Minnesotans but sometimes can be dangerous if proper precautions aren't taken. The Golden Valley Fire Department wants to remind residents to make smart decisions when heating their homes to avoid heating fires during extreme cold weather.
Follow these tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to help keep you, your family, and your home safe.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Often called the invisible killer, CO is an odorless, colorless gas created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, propane, etc. do not burn completely. In the home, heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of CO. CO alarms should be placed within 10 feet of every sleeping area of a home and on every level of a home.
Candles
Do not leave candles burning over night or while you leave the room or leave your home. It's also important to keep flammable material at least 3 feet away from all burning candles.
Electrical
Plugging only one heat-producing appliance into an outlet and keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from heat sources. You should also never use an extension cord with heat-producing appliances.
Fire Places
Fire places should be cleaned and inspected regularly, and be sure the flue is open before lighting a fire. Ashes should be allowed to cool, stored in a tightly covered metal container and soaked with water before putting them in a garbage can.
For more information, visit the NFPA website.