November 4, 2010 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2010-42) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-2857/Fax: (251) 208-2861 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org PREPARE FOR COOLER WEATHER AND TIME CHANGE Heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires in the United States and the second leading cause of home fire deaths in this country. Misuse or improper maintenance causes most of these fires. Before using any heating equipment it should be checked by a professional. Make sure the unit is clear of dust build-up and change or clean filters before use. Also with the time change this weekend it is recommended that everyone change the batteries in their smoke alarms as well as check to make sure they work properly. With the impending cooler weather coming into our area this weekend the Mobile Fire-Rescue Department offers the following winter safety information: The leading causes of home heating fires are: • Placing things that can burn too close to portable and fixed space heaters. • Failure to clean chimneys and connectors. • Improper design and installation. • Fueling errors involving liquid or gas fueled heaters. • Leaving auxiliary (i.e. portable space heaters) heating equipment unattended. All of these methods of heating may be acceptable. They are however, a major contributing factor in residential fires. Many of these fires can be prevented. • Do not use flammable liquids to start or accelerate any fire. • Keep glass or metal screen in front of the fireplace opening. • Before going to sleep, be sure your fireplace fire is out. NEVER close your damper with hot ashes in the fireplace. • Follow instruction when using synthetic logs. • Space heaters need to be given at least a three foot clearance all the way around the heater. • Avoid using extension cords when using electric space heaters but if you must use a proper size and unplug when not in use. • Turn portable heaters off and unplug them before leaving home or when going to bed. • Never use ovens as a means to heat the home. • Install Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors if you have gas fueled appliances. ###