U.S. Fire Administration Winter Fire Facts
- Approximately 900 people die in winter home fires each year
- $2,091,000,000.00 in property loss occurs from winter home fires
- 67% of winter fire occur in one- and two-family homes
- Cooking is the leading cause of all winter home fires
- 5:00pm – 8:00pm is the most common time for winter home fire
Source: National Fire Incident Reporting System 2009-2011
Winter fire safety is LIFE safety!
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, more house fires happen during the winter than any other season. In fact, half of all annual home heating fires occur during December, January and February. The majority of these incidents can be avoided by ensuring heating equipment is tested and operating properly. It is also very important to install and test your smoke, heat and carbon monoxide detectors. Sadly, the state of Michigan leads the nation in home fire deaths. Installing smoke alarms outside each and every bedroom and on every level of the home is a critical fire safety responsibility of every homeowner.
An open fireplace or a wood furnace are popular and enjoyable home amenities. However, if they are not maintained properly, risk of fire, property damage and dangerous levels of carbon monoxide can occur. Furthermore, heating equipment is involved in 1 of every 6 reported home fires and 1 in every 5 home fire deaths. Be sure to have a qualified professional clean and inspect your chimney and vents each and every year. For open fireplaces and furnaces, store cooled ashes in a tightly covered metal container stored at least 10 feet away from your home and nearby buildings.
Additionally, as we tend to compact our homes during the winter months, it is important to provide plenty of space to electrical heaters and open-flame candles. Keep flammable materials away, as house fires can begin and spread at an alarming rate. Lastly, be sure to set an escape plan for your family in case a fire occurs. Know your exits and be sure everyone in the home understands them as well!
Explore Life Safety with EPS Security
Visit our Home Security page for more information on fire safety and other important EPS Security services for your home. Protecting your home is a 24/7 job… schedule a professional security survey with our expert team of security consultants today. Or give us a call at (800) 966-9199. Our team will provide a comprehensive security analysis and system quote customized to your home, your needs and your budget.
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