So, how can you stay safe from fires this autumn?
As the weather becomes cooler and the leaves change colors, one thing is sure: autumn is here. Fall can be a beautiful season full of warm drinks, apple picking, trick-or-treating, chilly nights, and other fun. However, autumn comes with fire risks regarding fire safety. So, how can you stay safe from fires this autumn? Keep reading for the answers!
Fall Decorations
With the seasonal changes comes a change in décor. In autumn, typical decorations include scarecrows, crepe paper, dried corn cobs, and Halloween decorations. While these may be festive and fun, they are also fire hazards. So, how can you decorate safely and stay safe from fires this autumn? Follow these tips:
- Keep decorations away from heat sources and open flames, like light bulbs
- Consider using electric or battery-operated lights instead of actual candles in Jack-O-Lanterns
- Inspect any decorative lights to see if they’ve been certified as safe
- Don’t allow decorations block any exits you may need in case of an emergency
- Avoid overloading outlets as you plug in decorations
Fireplaces and Candles
Many people enjoy using a fireplace or lighting scented candles during autumn. Much like bonfires, they can enjoy them safely with the following fire safety tips:
- Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby
- Keep any flammable objects at least 3 feet away from the fireplace
- Install safety screens to protect children, and keep all pets and kids at least three feet away from the fireplace
- Never leave a fireplace unattended
- Clean out ash from previous fires before lighting a new one, and confirm the chimney is cleaned yearly
- Never leave a lit candle unattended
- Keep candles away from anything flammable
- Avoid moving a burning candle; otherwise, the wax may burn you
- Use a candle snuffer to extinguish a candle because you want to avoid splattering hot wax
- Place burning candles at least 3 inches away apart from each other
Home Heating Hazards
Some of the most critical aspects to consider to stay safe from fires this autumn are maintenance, cleaning issues, and proper spacing of heating elements. Fall is a favorite time of year for many people, and it can also be a fun time to enjoy candles, unique decorations, and more. Although it’s fun, ensuring you do so safely regarding fire hazards is crucial.
Commercial and Residential Fire Prevention from Judd Fire Protection
If you want to ensure your home and business are safe throughout the year, trust Judd Fire Protection, LLC. We have over two decades of experience designing, installing, inspecting, and repairing residential and commercial fire protection systems. We serve clients throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and West Virginia. If you are interested in finding out more about our services and protecting your home and business, give us a call at 410-871-3480.