How to safely keep warm during a cold front
With an icy, wet and windy conditions sweeping across parts of the country, the front of the fireplace will quickly become the most coveted spot in the house.
But before we plug in the heaters, re-load the gas cylinders and stack up wood for the fireplace, ensure your family is educated about the potential risks of fires and other heating hazards. Here are four fire safety tips to consider this winter.
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1. When using a gas heater or a fireplace indoors, make sure the room is well ventilated and has a carbon monoxide detector installed. Carbon monoxide, which is released by burning fuels including gas and wood, is a colourless, odourless gas that can cause serious health problems or even death if inhaled in high concentrations. Open a window or door slightly to allow fresh air to circulate in the room.
2. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing, operating, and maintaining your gas heater. Different models may have different safety features and requirements. Check the heater regularly for signs of damage, wear, or leaks. If you detect any problems, stop using the heater immediately and contact a qualified technician for repairs.
3. Never leave a fire or a gas heater unattended or use it while sleeping. Gas heaters can pose a fire hazard if they tip over, malfunction, or come into contact with flammable materials. Always turn off the heater and disconnect it from the gas supply when not in use. Once you are done using a fireplace, be sure to extinguish it properly.
4. Keep all items at least one meter away from your heater and do not use your heater to dry clothes, as this poses a fire danger.
5. Keeping your fireplace and chimney maintained reduces the risk of a chimney fire. Regular maintenance also helps keep your fireplace in optimal working condition and allows it to heat more efficiently. Keeping your fireplace clean also helps protect indoor air quality by reducing the smoke and soot entering the home.
6. A fire extinguisher is a vital tool for preventing the spread of fire in your home, helping you to put out small fires before they become larger and more dangerous. You should have at least one fire extinguisher in your home, preferably in an accessible location near the kitchen, where most fires start. You should also check the expiry date and pressure gauge of your fire extinguisher regularly and replace it before it expiries/as soon as you notice a problem.
