When the temperatures drop, many across Western Washington like to turn up the heat. But, there are some things to keep in mind to prevent that heater from sparking a fire.
First and foremost, use your space heater properly. Abide by the three-foot rule, meaning create some space between the heater and other items like furniture or even children’s or pets’ toys.
“It seems pretty cheesy. But, space heaters…they need space,” says Heather Wong, Public Information Officer for the Bellevue Fire Department.
According to officials, you should plug it directly into the outlet and never leave it unattended.
Wong also suggests you check smoke alarms, something she says we should be doing once a month. Furthermore, make sure that space heater is turned off at night. And, if you have a real fireplace, get your chimney cleaned.
“We all love the fire and sitting by the fireplace. Especially, when it’s cold and icy and snowy outside,” Wong asserts.
“But, if you haven’t had it serviced, it’s time to do that before you light the logs.”
It’s also important to note the top three causes of house fires: cooking, heating, and electrical. Over the weekend, Bellevue FD responded to all three.
Wong also warns that carbon monoxide is a “silent killer,” and that we need to be checking the batteries and functionality as often as we do with smoke detectors.
She also insists you should never use your oven or gas stove top to heat your home, under any circumstances.
Aaron VanTuyl echoes those sentiments, with some similar fire safety tips.
“Don’t use charcoal or gasoline indoors,” says the Communications Manager with the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner.
“Don’t close the damper until you’re sure the ashes are cool to the touch,” VanTuyl cautions. “And, always keep a screen around an open flame, if you have one, and keep an eye on it.”
Meanwhile, Rick Wolfe suggests replacing your furnace filter before the equipment encounters any issues or malfunctions, so that air can flow freely throughout your home.
The Warehouse Manager at “Cardinal Heating & Air” says it’s one of the main things people can do protect themselves. A measure of preventative maintenance that reduces the risk of fire.
He also recommends getting an evaluation of the electrical system in your house. And, also advises people get a whole home surge protector installed.
“Anytime we have these big storms, that’s when the lights will all-of-a-sudden flash. It’ll go completely dark and then pop back on. That is evidence of a giant power surge,” notes Wolfe.
“Anything with a control board in it these days can be blown and you will lose power to that equipment. Possibly even fire.”
Wolfe confirms there’s a massive uptick in calls whenever inclement weather hits. But, those calm periods when the forecast is less hazardous are when it’s best to perform preventative maintenance. Checking around your home and calling experts to review the current equipment.
He also says “Cardinal Heating & Air” has been very busy dealing with their fair share of house visits in the midst of this cold snap.
However, their goal is to get the heat back on as soon as possible. Wolfe shared that they got a service call late Thursday afternoon…and, had the heat back on by nightfall.
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