With the winter weather comes some safety challenges. Here are some tips to ensure your home is FDNYSmart and prepared throughout the colder months:
Space Heaters
- Always use certified space heaters and ensure they are placed on flat, non-flammable surfaces.
- Keep them at least 3 feet away from flammable materials, like curtains, furniture and bedding. Give space heaters space.
- Never leave a space heater unattended.
- Plug the heater directly into a wall outlet and never use an extension cord or power strip.
Carbon Monoxide Awareness
- Install working carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home, particularly near sleeping areas.
- Never use an oven or stove to heat your home.
Shoveling Snow
- Warm up with some light stretching before going outside.
- Dress in layers and wear boots with good traction to prevent slips and falls.
- Use a lightweight shovel and push snow instead of lifting whenever possible.
- Take frequent breaks and avoid overexertion.
- Stay hydrated, even in cold weather.
Candle Safety
- Use flameless candles whenever possible. If using traditional candles, keep them in sturdy holders and away from anything that can catch fire.
- Never leave candles burning unattended or within reach of children and pets.
Other Safety Tips and Information
- Be sure to stock up on winter essentials, including flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food and bottled water.
- Create a family emergency plan and ensure everyone knows what to do during a fire or severe winter storm. Check on elderly and vulnerable neighbors.
- Keep fire hydrants clear at all times. Buried hydrants can cause critical delays, increasing the danger and difficulty of fighting a fire. Make sure to clear snow and ice from fire hydrants after storms.
- Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working, and test them monthly.
For more winter safety tips visit https://www.fdnysmart.org/winter-safety/