Winter Safety Tips from Fire Chief Smith

Safety Tips

Natural trees should be cut at a 45 degree angle at the base and placed in water.
Tree stands should hold at least one gallon of water.
Check water level every day and refill.
Place tree away from all heat sources.
Use only UL approved indoor lights.
Inspect lights for frayed wire or other defects before use.
No more than three strands of lights should be linked together.
Do not leave lights on unattended.
Do not overload electrical outlets or extension cords.

When the tree becomes dry, discdiscard it immediately.

Always make sure that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working.
Never use fuel burning appliances without proper ventilation.
Be sure your space heater is in good working condition. All space heaters need frequent check ups and cleaning.
Use only the proper fuel for each heater.
Store kerosene, gasoline and other flammable liquids outside the home at all times.
Use an approved safety can for storing flammable liquids.
Maintain a minimum of – 3 feet – clearance from walls and other combustible materials in all directions around a space heater.
Never leave children unsupervised alone in a room with a space heater.
Keep young children away from space heaters.
If you use an electric space heater, be sure your house wiring is adequate. Never use extension cords for space heaters. Use an approved power strip with a built in circuit breaker to prevent overloading.
Never cover a heater’s cord with carpeting or furniture.
Avoid using electric space heaters in the bathroom.
When refilling a flammable liquid fueled heater, avoid overfilling it.
Never fill a flammable liquid fueled heater while it is burning.
Turn off your heater or turn it on low before going to bed.

Always dress appropriately before going outdoors. Cold emergencies can occur even if the temperature is not below freezing, especially with children and the elderly.
Dress in layers so you can adjust to changing conditions.
Wear a hat, preferably one that covers your ears. A very large percentage of your body heat is lost through your head.
Wear gloves or mittens to help protect your hands.
Keep your feet warm and dry. If your daily activities include working around water or ice, wear waterproof boots.
Get out of wet clothes as soon as possible. Use blankets and warm liquids to help warm your body.
Recognize the symptoms of hypothermia; confusion, dizziness, exhaustion and severe shivering. If you experience these symptoms seek medical assistance immediately.
Recognize the signs of frostbite; gray, white or yellow skin discoloration, numbness and waxy feeling skin. If you show signs of frostbite seek medical assistance immediately.