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IDAHO FALLS ~ As the fall season approaches and temperatures begin to drop, the Idaho Falls Fire Department (IFFD) is urging residents to take precautions and prepare their home heating systems. This reminder comes as a joint effort between IFFD and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to reduce the risk of fire, carbon monoxide exposure, and costly repairs.
According to NFPA, heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fires during the winter months. To prevent such incidents, routine maintenance and safe practices are crucial throughout the heating season.
One of the key safety steps recommended by IFFD and NFPA is scheduling a professional inspection. It is advised to have a licensed technician check furnaces, boilers, or space heaters annually for any leaks, wiring issues, or ventilation problems. This can help identify potential hazards and ensure that the heating system is functioning properly.
Another important step is replacing or cleaning filters regularly. This helps maintain proper airflow and should be done every one to three months for disposable filters or reusable ones respectively. It is also essential to keep at least three feet of space around heaters and ensure that vents are not obstructed.
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In addition, it is crucial to inspect vents and chimneys for any blockages or buildup of soot or creosote. Installing a chimney cap can also prevent debris or animals from entering. It is also recommended to test safety devices such as smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors monthly and replace batteries annually.
When using portable heaters, it is important to follow safety guidelines such as inspecting cords for any damage, avoiding extension cords, ensuring automatic shut-off features work properly, and never leaving them unattended. It is also advised to turn off portable heaters when leaving a room or going to bed.
Other safety tips include following manufacturer's instructions for safe operation and maintenance of heating equipment, never using ovens or stovetops as a heat source, disposing of wood stove ashes only when they are completely cold, and creating and practicing a fire escape plan with all household members.
By completing these steps before the heavy use of heating systems during winter, residents can improve safety, efficiency, and have peace of mind. For more resources on heating safety, residents can visit the NFPA at nfpa.org or the U.S. Fire Administration at usfa.fema.gov. It is crucial to take these precautions to ensure a safe and warm winter season for all.
According to NFPA, heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fires during the winter months. To prevent such incidents, routine maintenance and safe practices are crucial throughout the heating season.
One of the key safety steps recommended by IFFD and NFPA is scheduling a professional inspection. It is advised to have a licensed technician check furnaces, boilers, or space heaters annually for any leaks, wiring issues, or ventilation problems. This can help identify potential hazards and ensure that the heating system is functioning properly.
Another important step is replacing or cleaning filters regularly. This helps maintain proper airflow and should be done every one to three months for disposable filters or reusable ones respectively. It is also essential to keep at least three feet of space around heaters and ensure that vents are not obstructed.
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In addition, it is crucial to inspect vents and chimneys for any blockages or buildup of soot or creosote. Installing a chimney cap can also prevent debris or animals from entering. It is also recommended to test safety devices such as smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors monthly and replace batteries annually.
When using portable heaters, it is important to follow safety guidelines such as inspecting cords for any damage, avoiding extension cords, ensuring automatic shut-off features work properly, and never leaving them unattended. It is also advised to turn off portable heaters when leaving a room or going to bed.
Other safety tips include following manufacturer's instructions for safe operation and maintenance of heating equipment, never using ovens or stovetops as a heat source, disposing of wood stove ashes only when they are completely cold, and creating and practicing a fire escape plan with all household members.
By completing these steps before the heavy use of heating systems during winter, residents can improve safety, efficiency, and have peace of mind. For more resources on heating safety, residents can visit the NFPA at nfpa.org or the U.S. Fire Administration at usfa.fema.gov. It is crucial to take these precautions to ensure a safe and warm winter season for all.
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