Did you know that house fires are more likely to occur in the wintertime? We spend more time indoors, the electricity is almost always running, and your furnace, candles, and fireplace are more likely to be in use. At Allied Services, Inc., we care about your safety and we never want you to be the victim of a house fire. To protect yourself, your loved ones, and your possessions, follow these winter fire safety tips.

How to Prevent House Fires in Winter

1. Have Your HVAC Unit Inspected

Your furnace is working hard in the wintertime to keep you comfortable. Not only will regular maintenance help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs, it will also ensure your furnace is running efficiently and that no issues will pop up that could cause a safety hazard.

2. Keep Your Vents Clear

Your heating vents are there for a reason and it’s important that you let them do their jobs. Make sure that your vents are clear of furniture, curtains, and other fabrics that will block air flow and cause unevenly heated rooms. Also, depending on what is blocking your vents, the material could potentially get too hot and therefore be a fire risk.

3. Check Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms save lives every day, but unfortunately, many homeowners forget to check them to ensure they are operational. Many house fires could be prevented with regular testing and battery changes to ensure they are working properly. Make it a habit to check your alarms every month so you can depend on them in a fire emergency.

4. Use Space Heaters with Caution

We understand wanting to use space heaters to keep you extra warm through the cold winter months, but please use extreme caution when using them. They can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. Never leave them plugged in if you’re not home, never put them near loose fabric or bedding, and if you have small children or pets in the home, keep them away from the heater.

Keep your home safe and warm all winter long with these tips from Allied Services. We serve the communities of Dayton, SpringboroBeavercreek, and Troy, with comprehensive HVAC maintenance and installation. To learn more, contact us today at (937) 269-5059.