Winter and Cold Weather Safety
Winter weather is upon us, and we should consider the following safety topics: proper clothing when going outdoors, heating safety and unexpected emergencies. Consider the following:
- Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from any heat source like fireplaces, wood stoves and space heaters.
- Turn off portable space heaters when you leave a room or go to bed.
- Be sure you have operating smoke detectors in your home and test them at least monthly.
- If you have any flame producing appliances in your house or have an attached garage, assure that you have properly installed and maintained carbon monoxide detectors.
- Winter ice and snow may require you to modify your family’s home fire escape plan.
- Whenever going out in winter weather wear a hat, scarf, coat, gloves, socks and water-resistant shoes or boots to avoid frostbite. If you have a cell phone, keep it in your pocket. You never know when you might get caught outside longer than anticipated due to an unforeseen situation.
- When storms deposit ice and snow, ensure your driveway and walkways are cleared to allow access to your home. Also be sure your house numbers can be seen from the street.
- If there is a fire hydrant near your home, please shovel snow away from it so it can be accessed during an emergency.