Fall, Fires & Safety | SERVPRO® of Western Dutchess County
10/11/2021 (Permalink)
Are you ready for the arrival of fall in the Hudson Valley? Instead of steamy, hot weather, we are now getting to enjoy chillier evenings and less humidity.
But like everything in life, fall comes with risks. The season tends to bring more fire hazards than you see during the summer and spring months. Let’s be proactive and look ahead at the safety tips you can use during the fall season.
Campfire Safety
An important thing about building a campfire is to know where to build it, how to build it and how to put it out when you are finished. The best thing you can do is build your campfire away from anything flammable, including low-hanging limbs.
As you are building the fire, it’s important to ignite the fire with a match and not an accelerant like kerosene or lighter fluid.
Anytime you want to keep the fire going, you can add larger, dry wood. And when you are ready to put the fire out, slowly douse it with a bucket of water. Ensure that you get all embers, so that when you leave, nothing can cause it to start again.
Space Heaters
By using a portable space heater, you can heat a small area in a short amount of time. But it’s important to recognize that while these small heaters are convenient, they are also one of the common causes of house fires in the fall and winter.
When using a space heater, there are some simple tips you can use in order to protect your home. Be sure to keep it on a level surface and away from heavy traffic areas.
While most of these space heaters now come with an automatic shut-off switch, you certainly don’t want to take any chances.
Halloween
When you think of Halloween, you picture pumpkins with candles, spooky porch décor or even the strobe lights to present a “haunted” home. Regardless of what decorations you choose, it’s important to remember that these things present potential fire hazards. So as you enjoy your décor, stay attentive.
If a fire hazard should turn from potential to reality in your home, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry and contact SERVPRO to get your property fully restored right down to the smell of smoke.