3 Fire Prevention Tips for Buffalo, NY Winters

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Welcome back to the Rainbow International Restoration Buffalo Blog! Here on the blog, we aim to inform and protect you so that you can be safe in your home or business. One of our areas of concern is fire damage remediation. But even better than cleaning up after a fire, we’re going to share some tips for you to avoid the fire in the first place altogether. Be fire smart this winter with these fire prevention tips!

Being Fire Smart in Winter With Tip 1 

Electrical Fires

Did you know? There are over 45,000 electrical fires in homes each year. Keeping yourself safe is imperative this snowy season! Remember, as much as you might think you need the extra heat, you don’t want to plug in that extra heat-producing appliance to the same outlet as another. Meaning, don’t put your coffee pot and microwave into the same outlet. Or two space heaters on the same outlet. Also, remember to never use an extension cord with a heat-producing appliance.  Move the radiator closer to the plug. 

Winter Fire Prevention Tip 2

Fireplaces

If you’re using a fireplace to heat your home during the winter there are other things to keep in mind. Keep a glass or metal screen in front of your fireplace to prevent embers from jumping out and setting your living room alight. Also, avoid burning paper and make sure you store ashes in a metal container with a lid, outside, and at least 10ft away from your home. And obviously, remember to put your fire out at night when going ot bed.

Winter Fire Prevention Tip 3

Wood-Burning Stoves

Another common method of home heating that can cause fires when left unchecked are wood-burning stoves. With a wood-burning stove, you should have your chimney cleaned and inspected each year. Also, anything that can burn should be at least 3 feet away from the stove. Similar to fireplaces, do not put paper in a wood stove, and ensure that the fire is out completely before going to sleep or leaving home. 

Get In Touch!

Cleaning up after a fire from all the damage is traumatic and can be dangerous itself. Avoid that experience altogether and follow these fire prevention tips to keep yourself, your family, and your business safe during these cold months. 

We have a 24-hr hotline available if you’re facing an issue that needs immediate assistance. You can also visit our convenient online contact page. Make sure to stay up to date with our blog for more information to stay safe going forward! 

We’re fully IICRC Certified in Mitigation and Restoration for water damage, fire and smoke restoration, mold remediation, and commercial and residential carpet cleaning.