Home Heating Safety Tips from the Seattle Fire Department

Looks like rainy season is now upon us and with the colder temperatures the heaters come out, and the fans are stored away till next year.

The Fire Department offers tips on how to heat your home safely.

“Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires during the months of December, January and February. Two out of three reported home heating fires and associated deaths and injuries involved portable and fixed space heaters and related equipment, such as fireplaces and chimneys.” says the Fire Department.

Here are some of their tips along with a factsheet and checklist:

*Install smoke alarms and test them monthly and change batteries once a year

*Keep items away from heaters, including baseboard heaters

*Keep all furniture, curtains and other items at least 12 inches away from baseboard heaters

*Don't block the flow of heat

*Have your heating systems and chimneys inspected, cleaned and repaired prior to the heating season

For more fire safety tips go here. Or contact the fire department at fireinfo@seattle.gov or on-line.