NFSA Warns Families of Increased Fire Risk During Winter

The U.S. Fire Administration estimates an average of 945 deaths, 3,825 injuries, and almost 2 billion dollars in property damage each winter.

“With the increased use of fireplaces and home heating systems during the winter months, families need to take the proper precautions to prevent potentially dangerous fire situations,” said Russell Fleming, President of the NFSA. “Holiday decorations can pose fire threats if not properly displayed and loss of electricity from winter storms can cause people to use alternative heating sources. Both of which can contribute to the increased risk of fire in winter. By taking the proper precautions and being aware of fire hazards in your home, families can help to decrease winter fire fatalities and property loss and keep their homes and families safe.”

With winter just beginning, the NFSA provides the following fire safety tips to keep families and loved ones safe all season long:

Water Your Christmas Tree- If your family has a Christmas tree with lights, make sure that the needles are not overly dry, which can lead to the tree catching fire. Likewise, unplug the lights when your family is asleep.

Watch Your Space Heaters- Limit your use of Space heaters and never leave them unattended. Space heaters are very dangerous if not used properly, and need to be at least three feet away from anything combustible.

Check Your Smoke Detectors- To ensure they are working properly and have full battery power. It’s recommended that you check the batteries in your smoke alarms when it’s time to turn the clocks forward or backward.

Have Emergency Numbers Handy – Keep an up-to-date list of emergency fire, police, and medical phone numbers near your telephone. Show every member of your family where this information is kept and teach all children how to call for help in case of an emergency.

Have an Escape Plan- Develop an escape plan with your family from multiple rooms within your home, both upstairs and downstairs. Take time to review the escape plan with your family, including a practice fire drill. Make sure the windows of children’s rooms are well marked to indicate them to firefighters.

Consider Installing Residential Fire Sprinklers- Fire sprinklers are the only proactive form of fire protection, providing firefighters the time they need to do their jobs as safely and effectively as possible, while helping to avoid potential injuries and devastating tragedies protecting your family and property.

For more information on how to protect yourself and loved ones this winter from the dangers of fire and to learn more about the life saving benefits of residential fire sprinklers visit here.

About the National Fire Sprinkler Association

Established in 1905, the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) is the voice of the fire sprinkler industry. NFSA leads the drive to get life-saving fire sprinklers into all buildings; provides support and resources for its members – fire sprinkler contractors, manufacturers and suppliers; and educates authorities having jurisdiction of fire control matters. Headquartered in Patterson, N.Y., NFSA has regional operations offices throughout the country.