Tips to ensure your family is safe this winter

Keep your family safe this winter

AT THIS time of year, when it is cold, heating sources such as heaters, braziers and fireplaces must be noted.

With the right preparation and presence of mind, adults and children can prevent injuries and deaths from these sources.

The Department of Disaster and Emergency Management Services gives the following advice to help keep everyone safe this winter.

When setting up a space heater, remember to keep it away from any flammable or combustible materials and place it on the floor, unless it is designed otherwise. The heater shouldn’t be left unmonitored. Areas where heaters are used should be free of flammable liquids. Do not put them on easily ignitable or combustible surfaces, such as rugs or carpets, or use them to dry wet clothing.

When using a fuel-fired heater in an enclosed area, it is a good idea to leave a window or door partially open to allow for fresh air to enter. This will help prevent carbon monoxide (CO) build-up or a depletion of oxygen levels.

All unvented fuel-fired heaters should be equipped with an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS).

For natural gas or propane-fired space heaters, remember the following safety tips: if you smell gas, do not attempt to light the heater. Turn off all controls, open a window or door and leave the area. Remember that, unlike natural gas, propane is heavier than air and does not dissipate rapidly. If you smell gas, do not touch any electrical switches or use an electrical appliance, radio or telephone in the area where you smell gas. Do not smoke when you smell gas because a spark could ignite the gas.

Electric heaters should be kept out of wet or moist places such as bathrooms because water could lead to a fire or shock hazard. Be sure to plug electric space heaters directly into an outlet, since using extension cords could result in overheating and fire.

Be sure to clean your heater regularly and follow the manufacturer’s guide for specific advice on maintenance and inspection.

When using coal in braziers and stoves, remember that coal produces carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide, which is not easily detectable. This makes these gasses very dangerous. Always keep a window or door open and never sleep with a brazier, coal stove or fireplace still burning.

To help make your winter safer, the department recommends testing your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These sensors are the most effective way to detect a problem and get your family to safety.