[RP TownTalk] Cold Weather Continues...

[S.C. Lamphier]

Just a reminder, courtesy of the Prince Georges' County Fire and EMS Department.
 
Electric Space Heaters



• Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). 



• Check to make sure it has a thermostat control mechanism, and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over. 



• Heaters are not dryers or tables; don't dry clothes or store objects on top of your heater. 



• Space heaters need space; keep combustibles at least three feet away from each heater. 



• Always unplug your electric space heater when not in use. 

  Turn off at night or whenever you sleep.
 
 
 
 
 
 
General Heating Tips

 Furnaces, fireplaces and Chimneys should be cleaned and checked each year by an appropriate professional prior to using. Only use seasoned wood in fireplaces and never use ignitable liquids to start a fire.The 3-foot rule applies to furnaces and fireplaces.  No combustibles items within 3 feet of these heating appliances. Dispose of fireplace ash into a metal container and store outdoors away from structures on a concrete surface.  Fireplace ash can ignite a fire days after they have been discarded.
Colder weather also increases the potential to carbon monoxide (CO) exposure.  To help prevent illness and possibly death from exposure to CO:


 Have a certified technician inspect all heating related equipment, kitchen appliances and vent pipes.Purchase and install a CO alarm that has a 10-year battery.Finally, having a working smoke alarm dramatically increases your chances of surviving a fire. Remember to practice a home escape plan, including 2 ways out of every room,  frequently with your family. 

Residents of Prince George’s County can contact 311 and request a smoke alarm or battery.  A firefighter will install a working smoke alarm in your home; free of charge.
 
 


Steve Lamphier, President, Fire Department
 
 		 	   		  
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