Winter storm barrels toward PA. Take these steps to check your fireplace, space heater
The National Weather Service in State College has issued a winter storm watch for the Centre County area through Friday morning, and total snow and sleet accumulations could reach 4 to 8 inches.
Forecasters expect the “wintry mix” to impact travel.
Wind gusts that could reach 40 miles per hour may make the temperature feel like 17 degrees Thursday morning, NWS State College forecasts.
With temperatures dropping, many will be looking to keep their homes toasty. Winter can be a risky time for fire hazards, however, according to travel company AAA, and taking proper safety precautions with your fireplace and space heater can mitigate dangers.
Fireplace safety tips
The Chimney Safety Institute of American advises yearly chimney and vent inspections, ideally before winter begins.
“Half of home heating fires are reported during the months of December, January, and February,” the National Fire Protection Association says.
After having your chimney and vent inspection, there are several best practices that can further mitigate risks.
“Before starting a fire in your fireplace, especially the first one of the season, take a peek up the chimney to check for any blockages like debris from trees or animal nests,” AAA’s website advises. “Check that the damper or flue is open, and clean out any ashes from previous fires. Also, consider keeping a window cracked to allow for even more ventilation.”
Using dry wood for your fire can produce less smoke compared to damp or green wood. AAA’s website also says it’s important to keep the area near your fireplace clear of anything flammable, and to consider using a safety gate if you have children or pets.
“Finally, never leave a fire unattended and double-check that it’s completely snuffed out when you’re done,” the AAA website says.
It’s also important to install carbon monoxide detectors on each floor of your home where people sleep, the Pennsylvania Office of the State Fire Commissioner advises. Detectors should also be placed near any major fuel-burning appliances.
Space heater best practices
Space heaters are the type of equipment most often involved in home heating equipment fires, accounting for 44%, as well as the vast majority of deaths and injuries in home fires caused by heating equipment, the National Fire Protection Association says.
You shouldn’t use a space heater that has a cracked, frayed or broken cord, AAA says, and you should always plug your heater directly into a wall outlet. An extension cord or power strip can be a fire hazard.
Here are three more tips on space heater safety, from AAA:
Place your space heater on a flat surface in a safe location. Avoid keeping them in high-traffic areas such as hallways and doorways.
Heaters should be kept at least 3 feet away from anything flammable, including papers, clothing and rugs.
Don’t leave your space heater unattended and always unplug the device when you are not using it.
