Algood’s Fire Chief said the coldest weather of the season so far serves as a reminder to stay warm in a safe manner.
David Judd said he has seen many fires caused by people trying to heat their homes with ovens. He said another common problem, leaving items too close to space heaters.
“I always tell everybody, you know, especially with space heaters, keep a three-foot safety zone around all space heaters, fireplaces, wooden stoves,” Judd said. “Never use extension cords or power strips because that can overload the power strips.”
Judd said space heaters can cause fires, as children or animals can bump into them and knock them over. Objects can come into contact with the heating element and ignite.
Judd said using ovens to warm a home can also cause issues.
“There’s over 1,700 home fires every year nationwide just due to space heaters. Nearly half of all heating fires happen in December, January, and February,” Judd said. “So,working smoke alarms will cut our chances of having a bad outcome in a fire in half.”
Judd said generators should never be used in the home, as they produce carbon monoxide.
“Make sure you know pets, animals, children are taken care of,” Judd said. “When you’re using firewood or heating with gas or something like that, having working carbon monoxide detectors to be able to detect that invisible gas that’s out there.”
Judd said he suggested weatherizing the home for the winter season, laying down rugs and mats and dressing in greater layers to keep warm, while cutting down on heating costs.