CHILL OUT SAFELY
Winter weather brings its own set of challenges, and it’s crucial to prioritize safety at home. Embrace the season with confidence by considering these essential tips, ensuring a secure and comfortable environment for you and your loved ones throughout the colder months.
1. SAFE SPACE HEATER USAGE:
• Place space heaters on solid surfaces, ensuring they are at least three feet away from flammable items.
• Always turn off space heaters before leaving a room or going to sleep.
2. FIREPLACE SAFETY:
• Only leave a fireplace unattended if the embers are fully extinguished.
• Use a fire screen to catch rolling logs or sparks.
3. CAUTION WITH GENERATORS:
• Operate generators only in open and ventilated areas, never inside a home, including basements or garages, to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide fumes.
• Only connect generators directly to household wiring with a qualified electrician installing a transfer switch to prevent backfeeding, which poses a severe threat to line workers.
4. OUTDOOR COOKING SAFETY:
• If using Sterno or charcoal to cook food, do so outside in a well-ventilated area.
• Cooking indoors with Sterno or charcoal can produce deadly carbon-monoxide fumes, which are colorless and odorless.
5. POWER LINE AWARENESS:
• Stay away from downed or sagging power lines.
• Do not attempt to remove tree limbs from lines.
• Never drive or walk over power lines; always assume they are electrified and dangerous.
• Immediately alert your electric cooperative of any damaged lines.
Winter can be beautiful but also challenging. Following these safety tips can help ensure a secure and warm winter for you and your family. Remember, safety comes first!