For most of us, winter is all about holidays, celebrations, and cozying up in front of the fireplace with a warm drink. Ah! It surely is the best time of the year. However, for many people, every year, it becomes a period of loss and grief due to house fires. While home fires occur year-round, they are a lot more common in winters because people spend a lot of time indoors.

Even though the holiday season is over, the risk of fire hasn’t ended. According to the US Fire Administration, December, January, and February are the peak months for house fire incidents.

As you cozy up indoors over the weekends looking to spend some quality time with your loved ones, be fire smart and follow these safety tips to avoid fire incidents at your home:

1. Be Careful with Heating Equipment

According to the National Fire Protection Association, one in every seven house fires occur due to heating equipment, making it the second leading cause of house fires in the US. It is also the third leading cause of house fire deaths.

To prevent the risk, get your heating equipment inspected by a professional every year, at the onset of winters. Also, make sure nothing that can burn is within a 3 feet distance (at least) of heating equipment when it is turned on. Lastly, always store cooled ashes in a properly covered metal container outside and at least 10 feet away from home.

2. Be a Careful Cook

When winters are in full swing, there’s nothing better than indulging in some delicious, home-cooked comfort food. However, things can go wrong quickly in the kitchen if you’re not being careful. Here are some tips to prevent any unfortunate incidents while you’re cooking for your loved ones:

• Never leave the kitchen, even for a little while, when you’re boiling, frying, or grilling food. If you have to, turn off the stove before leaving.
• Prevent grease buildup on the stoves and in the oven by regular cleaning.
• Do not let young children get close to the stove when it is turned on; keep them at three feet distance, at least.
• Keep all flammable items – plastic equipment, cleaning cloths, paper towels – away from the stove.

3. Install a Fire Alarm

In case a fire breaks out in any part of your home, make sure you do not remain unaware of it until it’s too late by installing a fire alarm. Having an up-to-date fire alarm system will also ensure that you receive timely help.

Follow these safety tips to prevent any house fire incident and enjoy the cold weather with your loved ones without putting safety at risk. If you live in Orlando, contact Millennium Fire & Security, Inc. for setting up an advanced fire alarm system.